Catalyst Facilitator Guide
Leadership Curriculum
CATALYST CLUB
Facilitator
GUIDE BOOK
Welcome to the Catalyst Club
The Catalyst Club is a structured 6-week small-group curriculum engineered to transform high-potential peers into collaborative leaders. This program targets personal introspection, empathetic communication, active delegation, and adaptive team dynamics.
As the facilitator, your role is not to lecture, but to guide reflections, provoke critical thinking, and manage a safe space where students can fail, adapt, and succeed in real-time.
THE CATALYST CORE
- ✓Weeks 1–3: Self-Awareness & Empathy (Internal compass, strengths, active listening)
- ✓Weeks 4–6: Collaboration & Teamwork (Consensus, role trust, sustainable vision)
The Standard 45-Minute Meeting Routine
01 | SPARK (10 MIN)
Check-In & Hook
Begin with the "Energy Meter" scale. Introduce the weekly core concept with a high-impact quote or quick physical challenge.
02 | EXPLORE (25 MIN)
Active Experience
Execute the Weekly Task Card activity. Students experience real-world scenarios, build prototypes, or debate dilemmas together.
03 | LAUNCH (10 MIN)
Reflection & Commit
Complete the Student Workbook. Students set one micro-goal related to the weekly focus to practice before the next session.
GOLDEN RULES OF FACILITATION
1. Silence is Golden
When asking a reflection question, wait a full 8 seconds before prompting. Give thinking space.
2. Validate, Then Deepen
Respond to contributions by repeating keywords back ("It sounds like you felt responsible...") then ask "Why?"
CATALYST CLUB FACILITATOR MANUAL PAGE 1
Part I: Self-Awareness & Empathy
WEEK 1 & WEEK 2 GUIDE
Phase 1: Deep Discovery
WEEK 1: INSIDE OUT (CORE VALUES)
Goal: Identify key personal values to understand what guides personal decision making.
Step 1: The Spark (10 mins)
Have students complete Page 1 of the Student Workbook. Facilitate sharing of one core value. Use Script: "Our values are like an internal compass. If you don't know where yours points, others will steer your ship."
Step 2: The Explore (25 mins) - Values Auction
Distribute Week 1 Task Cards. Give each student 100 points to bid. Act as the auctioneer. Sell off values like "Loyalty," "Success," "Creativity," "Kindness." Note who bids fiercely and who holds back.
Step 3: The Launch (10 mins)
Reflect: "Why did you fight for that value? How does it show up in how you treat others?" Let them set their weekly goal on Page 1 of the workbook.
Facilitator Tips
Watch for: Students buying values just because their friends are. Push them to be authentic.
Key Discussion Question:
"What happens when a team has members with completely opposing core values?"
WEEK 2: STRENGTH MATRIX (LEADERSHIP STYLES)
Goal: Identify personal leadership archetypes and learn to value complementary styles.
Step 1: The Spark (10 mins)
Students complete the "Leadership Style Quiz" on Page 2 of the Workbook. Tallies categorize them as Navigator, Architect, Engine, or Cheerleader.
Step 2: The Explore (25 mins) - Style Alignments
Divide the group into quadrants based on styles. Distribute Week 2 Task Cards. Ask quadrants to solve the "Sudden Storm" challenge. They must draft a response plan utilizing only their style strengths first, then mix groups.
Step 3: The Launch (10 mins)
Reflect: "How does a team suffer if everyone is an 'Engine' (all action, no plan)? Or all 'Navigators' (all plan, no action)?" Set Week 2 goal.
Archetype Guide
- Navigators: Strategists, systems.
- Architects: Detail-oriented creators.
- Engines: Output and drive.
- Cheerleaders: Cohesion, empathy.
Key Discussion Question:
"How can you lead from a style that doesn't feel naturally loud or dominant?"
CATALYST CLUB FACILITATOR MANUAL PAGE 2
Part II: Perspectives & Collaboration
WEEK 3 & WEEK 4 GUIDE
Phase 2: Building Bridges
WEEK 3: EMPATHY RADAR (PERSPECTIVES)
Goal: Learn active listening and see issues through diverse stakeholder perspectives.
Step 1: The Spark (10 mins)
Warm-up: "The Telephone Tweak." Whisper a subtle leadership message. Discover where it broke. Complete Workbook Page 3 (The Listening Meter).
Step 2: The Explore (25 mins) - The Stakeholder Chair
Use Week 3 Task Cards ("The Park Redesign"). Students assume contrasting roles (Mayor, Environmentalist, Local Kid, Skateboarder). They must defend their positions, then switch roles entirely with another group member.
Step 3: The Launch (10 mins)
Reflect: "What is the hardest part about defending an opinion you personally disagree with? How does this skill prevent team blow-ups?"
Listening Mechanics
Enforce the "Reflective Anchor": Before a student responds to another, they must paraphrase what the previous person said.
Key Discussion Question:
"Can you understand someone's viewpoint without agreeing with their conclusion?"
WEEK 4: CONSENSUS CODE (DECISIONS)
Goal: Understand the difference between voting (majority wins) and consensus (all agree).
Step 1: The Spark (10 mins)
Complete Workbook Page 4 (The Consensus Spectrum). Quick check-in on how group members feel when they are on the "losing side" of a vote.
Step 2: The Explore (25 mins) - The Refuge Decision
Hand out Week 4 Task Cards. The team must select 4 items to save in a sudden collapse from a list of 12. Rule: No voting allowed. Every single person must sign off on the 4 items. If anyone objects, the item is dropped.
Step 3: The Launch (10 mins)
Reflect: "Did anyone agree just to end the argument? How did you manage loud or demanding voices?" Set weekly goal.
Consensus Rules
Encourage the "Fist-to-Five" scale. 5 fingers = full support, 3 = neutral but agree, 0 = hard blocking veto.
Key Discussion Question:
"Why is a slower, unanimous decision often stronger than a fast, simple majority vote?"
CATALYST CLUB FACILITATOR MANUAL PAGE 3
Part III: Teamwork & Graduation
WEEK 5 & WEEK 6 GUIDE
Phase 3: Launching Leaders
WEEK 5: POWER SHARE (DELEGATION)
Goal: Understand role definition, delegation, and building mutual trust under pressure.
Step 1: The Spark (10 mins)
Complete Workbook Page 5 (The Delegation Map). Discuss a time when someone micromanaged them vs. trusted them completely.
Step 2: The Explore (25 mins) - The Blind Bridge Build
Use Week 5 Task Cards. Assign specific roles: Planner (holds blueprint, cannot touch materials), Runner (only fetches items, cannot build), Architect (only builds, cannot speak). Build a bridge across a 30cm gap with limited paper/tape.
Step 3: The Launch (10 mins)
Reflect: "Did you step out of your assigned role? Why is it hard to trust someone else to do their part of the project?" Set goal.
Delegation Pitfalls
Watch for "accidental takeovers" where one natural leader begins doing the runner's or builder's job out of frustration. Intervene immediately.
Key Discussion Question:
"How can you hold someone accountable without making them feel small?"
WEEK 6: HORIZON PLAN (GRADUATION)
Goal: Consolidate personal leadership identity and draft a sustainable goal sheet.
Step 1: The Spark (10 mins)
Reflect on the past 6 weeks. Discuss: "In what way are you a different leader today than on Week 1?" Complete Workbook Page 6.
Step 2: The Explore (25 mins) - The Leadership Shield
Students craft their custom "Leadership Shield" in the workbook using their top core value, key leadership style strength, a commitment statement, and their future leadership goal.
Step 3: The Launch (10 mins) - Club Graduation
Each student presents their Leadership Shield to the group. The facilitator delivers the completion awards (facilitator resource on page 6 of this manual).
The Catalyst Award
When handing out completion certificates, name one specific strength you witnessed each student develop over the six weeks.
Key Discussion Question:
"Where will you apply your 'Catalyst' leadership next in your school or family?"
CATALYST CLUB FACILITATOR MANUAL PAGE 4
Behavior Management
GROUP DYNAMICS & INTERVENTIONS
FAQ & TOOLS
Common Group Hurdles & Active Coaching Scripts
HURDLE A: The Dominant "Steamroller" Leader
One student takes complete control of the activity, silences other suggestions, and forces their own strategy onto the team.
Coaching Action: Pause the team. "I love the energy here, but we can't launch this unless every engine is running. [Dominant Student], select one peer who hasn't spoken yet and ask for their review on this strategy."
HURDLE B: The Disengaged / Silent Participant
A quiet student pulls away physically from the team workspace, avoids eye contact, and does not volunteer ideas.
Coaching Action: Do not put them on the spot publicly. Circulate, crouch down to their eye level, and suggest: "I'd love to hear your input on this detail. I'm going to ask the team for feedback on it in 1 minute, so be ready."
HURDLE C: High-Friction Stalemate during Decision-Making
The group splits into two stubborn factions on a scenario and starts shouting over each other, refusing to compromise.
Coaching Action: Freeze the debate. "Flip positions! Faction A, you have 60 seconds to state Faction B’s perspective as clearly as possible. Faction B, you do the same. Go."
30-Second Team Reset Protocol
If a team activity disintegrates into chaos, blow a double whistle or clap. Command the group to sit in absolute silence for 30 seconds. They must close their eyes and count their breathing. Once reset, ask: "Who was driving our system off the tracks, and what is one small fix we can make right now?"
CATALYST CLUB FACILITATOR MANUAL PAGE 5
Evaluation & Graduation
PROGRAM COMPLETION SHEET
Final Deliverables
Leadership Growth Rubric
Use this metric matrix to evaluate growth during student reflections and weekly interactions.
| Skill Category | Needs Growth | Proficient | Catalyst Level |
|---|
| Self-Awareness | Cannot describe personal leadership style or style biases. | Identifies personal strengths and names area of improvement. | Actively steps out of comfort zone to balance team dynamics. |
| Empathy & Respect | Interrupts others; defends own opinions exclusively. | Actively listens and accurately restates peer viewpoints. | Resolves conflict by seeking alternative win-win options. |
| Collaboration | Dominates tasks or refuses to take accountability. | Supports group goals; handles delegated tasks reliably. | Empowers quieter members and delegates according to skills. |
Facilitator Session Log
Most Engaged Session & Why
Peer Friction Observed
Growth Goals for the Next Group Cycle
READY TO AWARD
Upon completion, present each student with their official certificate. Check page 6 of the Student Workbook to co-sign their Leadership Shields.
CATALYST CLUB FACILITATOR MANUAL PAGE 6
Catalyst Student Workbook
WEEK 1 WORKBOOK
INSIDE OUT
NAME: _______________________
DATE: _______________________
Weekly Focus: Core Values
A leader's values are their internal compass. When faced with tough choices, values show you which direction to step. Today you will define your non-negotiables.
Step 1: The Core Value Pool
Review the pool below. Circle your top 5 favorite values, then highlight your top 2 core values.
LOYALTY
CREATIVITY
RESPECT
AMBITION
HONESTY
KINDNESS
COURAGE
DIVERSITY
HUMOR
DISCIPLINE
COMPASSION
WISDOM
Step 2: Values Reflection
Explain why these top 2 values represent who you are. How do they show up in your life?
Recall a time you saw someone compromise their values. How did it affect their relationship with others?
My Weekly Micro-Goal
Write down one specific action you will take this week to live out your top core value.
CATALYST CLUB MEMBER WORKBOOK PAGE 1
WEEK 2 WORKBOOK
STRENGTH MATRIX
NAME: _______________________
DATE: _______________________
Weekly Focus: Leadership Styles
No single leadership style wins every battle. Great teams rely on diverse styles supporting one another. Today you will map your personal style archetype.
Step 1: Style Self-Check
Check the box next to each statement that strongly resonates with how you operate in groups.
Quadrant A
I love building maps, plans, or structure first. I care deeply about rules, accuracy, and detail. Total Checked: ____ (Navigator / Architect)
Quadrant B
I focus on keeping team energy high and friendly. I prefer immediate execution over planning sessions. Total Checked: ____ (Engine / Cheerleader)
Step 2: Archetype Reflection
What is your dominant style from today's discussion? What is one strength of this style?
What style do you find hardest to work with, and how can you adjust your communication to bridge that gap?
My Weekly Micro-Goal
How will you intentionally support a peer with a different style than yours this week?
CATALYST CLUB MEMBER WORKBOOK PAGE 2
WEEK 3 WORKBOOK
EMPATHY RADAR
NAME: _______________________
DATE: _______________________
Weekly Focus: Understanding Perspectives
Catalyst Activity Task Cards
Printable Facilitator Tool
ACTIVITY TASK CARDS
Cut along dashed line vectors ✂
WEEK 1: CHALLENGE
THE VALUES AUCTION PITCH
Objective: Deliver a 60-second "Shark Tank" pitch explaining why your assigned value (e.g., Compassion) is the absolute most critical leadership quality for a group.
Materials: Scrap paper, timers.
The Catalyst Twist:
Your opponent has the opposite value. You must include a counter-argument to their value in your speech.
Catalyst Card #01
WEEK 1: SCENARIO
THE POPULAR COMPROMISE
Dilemma: Your team is planning a fundraiser. The most popular option is a video game night that excludes younger students. A minor, quiet option is an inclusive field day.
Your Role: You value Diversity & Inclusion. Do you support the popular vote to avoid friction, or defend your core value?
Discussion Prompt:
"What are the long-term consequences of sacrificing a value for instant group popularity?"
Catalyst Card #02
WEEK 2: CHALLENGE
THE QUAD-BUILD TEAMUP
Objective: Design a tower utilizing exactly 4 parts: 1 support, 1 aesthetic ornament, 1 balance weight, and 1 core.
Style Alignment: Assign members to the roles of Planner, Artist, Engine, and Cheerleader based on their Week 2 styles. Only they can do their part.
The Catalyst Twist:
Midway through, the leader must swap style cards with another member, shifting duties instantly.
Catalyst Card #03
WEEK 2: SCENARIO
THE CRITICAL STYLE CLASH
Dilemma: A high-stress group project deadline is in 2 hours. Your Navigator is building detailed charts, while your Engine is frantically writing copy without proofreading. They start arguing about speed vs. quality.
Your Role: As the Cheerleader, you must mediate. How do you respect both styles to ensure a successful submittal?
Discussion Prompt:
"How can you convince an Engine that slow planning actually saves time in the long run?"
Catalyst Card #04
CATALYST CLUB ACTIVITY SET PAGE 1
Printable Facilitator Tool
ACTIVITY TASK CARDS
Cut along dashed line vectors ✂
WEEK 3: CHALLENGE
THE ECHO RELAY
Objective: Student A reads a dense 3-sentence leadership problem statement. Student B must repeat it back completely, capturing all names, dates, and emotions perfectly.
