Part of my role as Safe Church Coordinator is presenting Creating Safe Spaces workshops, and I’ve spent some time getting a good grasp of the material. I’ve always appreciated the training I’ve received as a participant, and preparing to present has only grown that.

What is a ‘flipped classroom’?

One particular aspect that’s stood out to me is the ‘flipped classroom’ learning model. Many of us will remember the more traditional model from school: teacher takes the class through a lesson, and then each student puts that into practice with exercises in class or homework. In a ‘flipped classroom’ model, the main learning is done individually, which allows the ‘class time’ to focus on applying and implementing the new knowledge.

Why is the ‘flipped classroom’ good for Creating Safe Spaces?

I see lots of benefits from using this learning model for Creating Safe Spaces. Here are just three:

• It allows people to understand and process the foundational learning at their own pace, reducing the likelihood of being ‘left behind’.
• It gives opportunity for collaborative practice in workshops, in a way that reflects ministry contexts. Safe Church culture and practices are best embedded collectively, so workshop scenarios are structured to reflect this.
• It gives opportunity for people to combine their knowledge and experience, which enables them to engage well in the workshop. This also means that workshop participants can learn from one another in significant ways.

As I move around tables during scenarios, or hear the thoughts, responses and questions out front, it’s a really encouraging thing to me. I see church volunteers and staff expressing their desire to serve God and people well. I see how people grow in their understanding of how Safe Church culture and practice is important for everyone: children, young people, volunteers, leaders, even whole church communities.

I’m thankful to God for all of this: the training program, the presenters, and the participants. May this continue to be a part of how God grows healthy churches in our movement.

If you want to know more or explore signing up for a CSS workshop, click HERE.

Stephen Donohue

Safe Church Coordinator