Accompanying Young People on a Life-Changing Pilgrimage
World Youth Day leadership is an opportunity to accompany young people as they encounter Christ, deepen their faith, and experience the joy of the universal Church.
As a Small Group Leader, you will support a group of student pilgrims throughout their formation and pilgrimage journey, creating a safe, welcoming and faith-filled environment where young people can grow in faith and community.
We are seeking faith-filled, responsible and committed staff who are passionate about accompanying young people and supporting their faith formation. Applications are open to all staff working within Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools.
The Role of a Small Group Leader
Small Group Leaders accompany and support student pilgrims throughout the World Youth Day journey by:
- Providing supervision and pastoral care
- Encouraging participation, prayer and reflection
- Building community and belonging
- Supporting student wellbeing and safety
- Modelling positive leadership and Catholic witness
- Upholding safeguarding responsibilities
- Participating in all required formation and training
What is Expected
World Youth Day is a pilgrimage, not a holiday. Small Group Leaders should be prepared for:
- Participation in formation and preparation sessions
- Long days, significant walking and large crowds
- Supporting students through a range of experiences and challenges
- Working collaboratively with fellow leaders, chaplains and staff
- Maintaining a strong commitment to child safety and wellbeing
Step 1
Download and read the Small Group Leader Application Pack (Below).
The application pack includes:
- World Youth Day Information Booklet
- Pilgrimage Roadmap
- Small Group Leader Role Description
- MACS Code Of Conduct
Step 2
Discuss your application with your Principal and seek endorsement to apply.
Step 3
Complete the online application form.
As part of the application process, you will be asked to reflect on:
- Your faith journey
- Experience working with young people
- Leadership and pastoral experience
- Your suitability for an international pilgrimage environment
- Why you feel called to serve as a Small Group Leader
Step 4
Arrange a character reference from your Parish Priest.
Step 5
Submit your application before the closing date.
Selection Process
Applicants will be assessed against the World Youth Day Small Group Leader Selection Criteria.
The selection process has been designed to identify applicants who demonstrate strong leadership, sound judgement, pastoral capability, safeguarding awareness and a commitment to faith formation.
Selection will take into consideration:
- Leadership experience
- Faith formation and Catholic witness
- Experience accompanying young people
- Commitment to student wellbeing and child safety
- Suitability for pilgrimage leadership
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
Key Dates
Applications Open: 19 October 2026
Applications Close: 30 November 2026
Formation Program Commences: March 2027 Onwards
World Youth Day Travel Dates: 29 July – 11 August 2027
Ready to Begin?
If you feel called to accompany young people on this unique pilgrimage journey, we encourage you to review the application pack and submit an application.
For further information, please contact the World Youth Day Project Team at WYD27@macs.vic.edu.au
