ABSTRACT
The argument for small group methods in adult education is widely accepted amongst medical educationalists, but if these methods are to be used successfully, then skilful leaders is necessary. Small group leadership courses are becoming essential for potential group leaders so that in a short time they can learn skills that their predecessors took years to learn. The group started as a short meeting at the end of the half-day release course but it soon became clear that it was necessary to discuss more than the weekly running of the course. The meetings are held each week whenever possible after the half-day release course, and the aims are: to plan and develop the course; to improve group leadership skills; to act as a support group; to broaden horizons by publications and research from within the group. More time is spent by the group on planning and developing the course during the holiday periods.
