The best leaders are learners first

Chaplains, interns, Queensland SU trainers and SU Emerge staff from Tasmania, Queensland and WA gathered together at Camp Geo Busselton for intense and practical help in leading small groups via A2B Training. Monique Crabtree reflects on the value of the process below.

What is A2B Training?
A2B stands for journeying with students as they move from A to B in their growth.

How does A2B work:
One of the key concepts in A2B is the necessity of a group agreement. On the first day of any group forming, create an agreement so that all members have ownership. Then the tone of the group can be set. This includes how they want to be treated, what they hope to achieve in the group time and what worries they have about the group.

How will A2B training help?
We Chappies think this will really help us to lead students to be more resilient as they guide their own conflict resolution and personal growth under the watchful eye of the group facilitator.

What was the best part of the training?
What was unique about this training was that we were put in small groups so we ‘lived’ the life of a small group whilst being trained in facilitating it. We all experienced bonding, being listened to, frustration when an activity didn’t go well, and the effect of forgiveness when conflict arose.

There was never a dull moment as we were led through activities both inside and outside, showing us we needed to mix it up to keep students attentive in a small group setting. The power of play was also emphasised. This is where the group learns to trust and be a team within the parameters of the safety of the group agreement.

Thank you Scripture Union and faithful supporters for this joyful and authentic training opportunity. Now to put it into practice!