Anyone new to supervision of theological students participates in an orientation workshop at the School.

Supervisors new to the QSR field education program receive an on-site visit and orientation from the field education director.

Experienced supervisors and new supervisors gather for regular sessions during the academic year (usually one per semester). These sessions are designed to provide peer support and to develop supervisory skills and understanding. Various methods are used such as case studies, role playing, video clips, guest resource persons, etc.

Sessions in the past have covered topics such as:

• "Using the case study as a method for data gathering in supervision and for theological reflection"
• "Giving Effective Feedback"
• "Spirituality and Supervision"
• "Supervising a student from another culture"
• "Supervising students in Mid-Life"
• "Vulnerability in Supervision: A Learning Opportunity", and
• "Models of Supervision and Supervisory Identity"

Supervisors receive a monthly e-mail communication from the Field Education Director. E-mail communication is used as a means for connecting with supervisors, dealing with their questions and concerns and sharing program information and developments.

Lay persons involved in supervision through our program's "Ministry Reflection Groups" have special orientation sessions in early October, and a support and enrichment session in mid-February.

In addition, UCC courses in "The Ministry of Supervision" are actively promoted on an annual basis and supervisors are encouraged to apply for this training.