Starting an SU Group
Christian groups over lunchtime or after school are often - but not always - called “SU Groups” or “Scripture Union Groups.” There are around 400 such groups in Scotland.
SU Groups vary from group to group, but you’d expect to see a friendly welcome to any and every young person, not just the Church goers. You’d expect a focus on “exploring the Bible” in an engaging way; and you’d expect it to be fun. You might also expect food as members eat their lunch while the group gathers.
Groups can be led by school staff, senior pupils, parents or other church volunteers or youth workers - anyone in whom the school (and SU) has confidence. It’s a weekly commitment involving a bit of preparation (what doesn’t?) and the lunch hour (or after school) in your local school.
How could you start this yourself?
Visit the SU Scotland website and you’ll find advice, including a series of questions entitled, “How to start an SU Group” to guide you through the process, Group Leaders manuals and other resources.
Contact the Regional SU Scotland staff member for your area, who will be happy to help.
Talk to others who might be part of such a group (use the questions mentioned above to identify them), pray about this project and get others to do the same then look at the best way to approach the school’s Head Teacher or Senior Management Team.
Wanting to start an SU group in your Secondary School but not sure what to do about it? Check out this video below for helpful tips and practical insight from Karen Stagoe, SU's Regional Worker based in Lanarkshire.
