Running Alpha Youth as part of the school curriculum presents unique opportunities and challenges. Unlike traditional Alpha, participation in a curriculum setting is mandatory, and the classroom setting impacts discussion dynamics. This section covers key considerations, including engaging students effectively, adapting content to fit the curriculum, working with school staff and local churches, and setting the right tone for sessions.
Keep In Mind
Audience – When Alpha Youth is delivered as part of the curriculum, it becomes compulsory for all students in the cohort. This is different from a traditional Alpha Youth setting, where participants choose to attend.
Setting – When the course is delivered in classrooms with students sitting in rows, it has a different dynamic compared to when participants are split into small groups. This can impact the quality of discussion and the style of delivery.
Provide opt-out options for students with genuine concerns, consider providing alternative arrangements for students who may not feel comfortable participating.
How To Run
Think-Pair-Share is a collaborative learning strategy that helps students process and discuss ideas. This technique encourages deeper thinking, active participation, and better understanding through discussion.
Co-Facilitation – Involve a local church or youth leader as a co-facilitator in each session to provide faith-based input and handle more sensitive topics.
Respect Boundaries – Deliver sensitive content like Holy Spirit teachings in a respectful, non-coercive manner, and ensure students can opt-out if needed.
Support Non-Faith Teachers – Train teachers to facilitate discussions, ensuring they feel confident while respecting the diverse beliefs in the room.
Setting The Tone
Incorporate interactive elements – Add interactive activities or discussions that can engage students more effectively and make the session feel more relevant to them.
Use icebreakers – Begin the session with short, engaging activities that help students feel more comfortable and open to the experience, helping them connect with the material and each other.
Volunteer as opposed to teacher led – If possible, use volunteers as opposed to teachers to host the sessions. That way teachers can participate in the course too. Work with local churches and faith-based organisations on the delivery of the Alpha Course.
