The Certificate in Group Work and Facilitation Skills is an NFQ Level 6 programme designed for individuals who facilitate, lead or support groups in professional, community and educational settings.
Effective group facilitation requires more than strong communication skills. It involves understanding group dynamics, encouraging participation, managing challenges and creating environments that support learning, collaboration and positive outcomes. This programme provides learners with the knowledge, skills and confidence to plan, facilitate and evaluate group-based activities in both face-to-face and online settings.
The programme is suitable for professionals working in community development, youth work, education, healthcare, social care, training, management and other roles that involve leading groups, workshops or meetings.
This programme explores the principles and practice of effective group work and facilitation.
You will examine how groups develop and function, including the factors that influence participation, engagement and group effectiveness. The programme considers different facilitation styles and approaches, helping learners understand how to create inclusive, supportive and productive group environments.
A strong emphasis is placed on practical facilitation skills, including active listening, questioning techniques, communication, feedback, conflict management and professional boundaries. Learners also develop presentation skills and explore approaches to delivering structured and engaging group sessions.
The programme introduces a variety of group work methods and techniques, including experiential and creative approaches that can be adapted to different audiences and settings. Learners will also develop skills in planning, delivering and evaluating group activities, enabling them to assess effectiveness and continuously improve their practice.
Throughout the programme, reflective learning encourages participants to examine their own facilitation style and develop greater self-awareness as both group members and facilitators.
All applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Lifelong Learning reserves the right to require applicants to attend for an interview to determine their suitability for the programme.
The programme supports professional development for individuals working in community, voluntary, educational, health and social care settings, as well as those involved in training, coaching, mentoring and team leadership.
The knowledge and skills gained can enhance effectiveness in roles that involve group facilitation, stakeholder engagement, training delivery, community development, team management and collaborative working. Graduates will be equipped to design, facilitate and evaluate group activities that support learning, participation and positive outcomes.
The programme also provides a foundation for further study in areas such as community development, leadership, education and training, social care, youth work and professional practice.
Explore our Part-time Prospectus to see the range of flexible study options available, with detailed course information, entry requirements, and study formats. Download the prospectus to find a programme that fits around your work and other commitments.
