A new group of trainees does not become a team by itself. This guide gives a practical plan for using group sessions to improve communication, trust and teamwork.
Group training means training people together, rather than one at a time. Used well, it helps a new group of trainees or apprentices learn to communicate, solve problems and rely on each other.
This guide explains what makes group training work and gives a step-by-step plan. It also shows how to use it in hiring and onboarding. It is not about trust falls. It is about practical teamwork.
Working in a group, people learn things that are hard to teach one-to-one.
These effects are not automatic. They depend on how the sessions are designed and run.
Decide what you want the group to be able to do afterwards. Vague goals lead to vague sessions.
A clear goal also tells you which activities to include and which to leave out.
People learn in different ways, so use a mix.
Keep each session focused. A short, well-run session is better than a long one that loses attention.
The person running the session affects the result. Facilitators should be able to manage group dynamics, keep discussion respectful and include quieter people.
At the end of each session, ask the group:
Write down the answers and use them to adjust the next session. Reflection turns an activity into learning.
Treat it as an ongoing process, not a one-off event. See also How to Create a Structured Training Program for Your Trainees.
You can bring group training in from the start.
Trainees placed through a group training organisation may be the only trainee in their workplace. Time with other trainees, such as classes at a training institute, can help them share experiences. Future1st employs trainees and apprentices and places them with host businesses in Victoria, and field officers visit workplaces and training institutes to monitor progress.
It is training delivered to a group together, so people learn from each other as well as from the facilitator. It is often used to build teamwork and communication.
No. Small businesses can run short sessions with just a few people, or encourage trainees to meet with peers through training providers.
Long enough to cover one clear goal. Short, focused sessions usually work better than a long day with too many topics.
Look for changes in behaviour, such as better handovers or fewer misunderstandings. Ask trainees and supervisors for feedback as well.
Future1st recruits, employs and places apprentices and trainees with host businesses. Call (03) 9656 9797 to ask how a placement would work for your team.
Start with one clear goal and one short session, then build on what you learn. To talk about hosting trainees or apprentices, see Hire an apprentice with Future1st or call (03) 9656 9797.
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