Enabling a workplace where we are always learning
About Community Learning Groups
Community Learning Groups are designed to help participants continue their leadership learning journey following completion of specific leadership programmes.
The groups create a space to explore leadership challenges and offer opportunities to practice coaching questions, receive feedback and gain insights from peers while building supportive relationships and networks. The Community Learning Group approach is a tried and tested process.
What past participants have said
"Community learning groups create a safe, supportive space for leadership reflection and learning"
"Most valuable insight I gained was having a supportive network who understand the unique context and environment of Trinity"
"Not alone with challenges and Community Learning Groups build a sense of community and network"
What to Expect
Group Structure
- Each group includes up to 6 participants.
- Groups meet for 3 sessions. Sessions are scheduled for 90-120 minutes.
- Time is built in to allow the group to connect and settle into it.
Session Design
- Each session follows a consistent structure.
- Participants take turns playing certain roles.
- Each session has capacity to explore 2 challenges. Sessions centre around real challenges participants are facing in their leadership.
Roles in the Group
Presenter/Challenge Holder
Shares a current leadership and is open to questions and insights from the group.
Support Team/Participants
Practice active listening and powerful questioning to support the presenter.
Facilitator/Learning Guide
The Facilitator/Learning Guide helps the group stay on track and ensures the process is followed consistently.
Meeting format
Each session explores two leadership challenges, one from each of two group members.
This means the cycle is followed twice:
1. Sharing the challenge (7 mins)
The Presenter shares their leadership challenge with the group. The Facilitator ensures time is managed.
2. Questioning (15 mins)
The Support Team asks open-ended questions to help the Presenter explore new angles. The Facilitator helps maintain the flow and ensures the questions are appropriate e.g. non-directive.
3. Insights (10 mins)
The Support Team offers observations and ideas. The Presenter just listens. The Facilitator ensures that advice and solutions are only shared during this stage.
4. Actions & reflections (8 mins)
The Presenter reflects on the insights, identifies potential actions, and provides feedback on how the group supported them. The Facilitator keeps the session moving and ensures concise feedback.
5. Process review (5 mins)
The whole group reflects on what worked well and what could be improved. The Facilitator ensures everyone has the chance to share their thoughts.
Further Guidance
For further practical guidance, explore the Community Learning Group Process Guide and Toolkit.