What is FIRST Training?
FIRST Training is an annual three day retreat for young people from CCCNZ/Open Brethren heritage churches in the 16-18 age bracket. Too often we lose young people at this time, yet many have leadership potential that needs nurturing. We urge you to set up a leadership development programme (see link below) for these young people and then invite them to join you at one of three annual retreats. Dates and venues for 2023 are as follows:
- South Island: 3 - 5 June at South Island Waipara Adventure Centre.
- Central North Island: 4 - 6 July at TÅtara Springs.
- Upper North Island: 11-13 July at Moirs Point Christian Camp.
- Lower North Island: 3-5 October at Forest Lakes.
What Happens at FIRST Training?
FIRST Training includes a mix of teaching, time in small groups for discussion, and "solo" times for prayer and reflection. There is also time set aside in the evenings for young people to gather in their youth groups with their leader(s) for further discussion and prayer. Sessions focus on a range of topics related to leadership development. See link below for curriculum and timetable. We run a two year roll over curriculum meaning young people can attend two retreats over two years and cover different material.
Cost
Cost is $180.00 per person. It is our recommendation that churches assist in raising money so that no individuals are left behind for financial reasons. Churches and young people can fundraise or ask church members to sponsor individuals. If you still have a shortfall, talk to us about applying for funding.
Registration
Approach those young people you'd like to invite and give each of them an invitation (see link below) and download a registration form (see link below) for them each to complete. When you have collected these, register your young people online using the link below as soon as it becomes active
Further information
To get fully on board with FIRST Training download a step by step checklist using the link below. Also below you'll see links to two promotional videos: one for you to view as a leader and another for you to show to your young people.
For Youth Leaders
For Young People
REGISTER YOUR TEAM BELOW
Registrations will go live 3 months before each event.
1. Download and print the registration form above/below.
2. Parents (for under 18y/o) and Leaders to fill in forms.
3. Collect all forms
They will need to be scanned/photographed and uploaded with the online registration
4. Register your group using the link below.
We suggest registering your group all at once so your church receives one invoice
Click this button to add another attendee:
5. If you need to register more people, use the same link
We cannot add more people to the original invoice
