Inside a Club

What ages of girls can join a GEMS Club?

While not every church or Christian organization begins their club programme level for the same age or school grade, materials are available and most appropriate for girls between the ages of 5-16, or from grades 1 through 10.

Where do clubs meet?

Most clubs meet in the sponsoring church or Christian organization facility and use classroom space as well as larger meeting spaces.

How regularly do clubs meet?

Most clubs meet every week or every other week. Each book within our curriculum provides a year’s worth of lessons, though each club can decide how best to schedule their club meetings and lesson plans.

How long do meetings last?

Most clubs meet for 2 hours.

What materials are needed?

Each programme level—Awareness for girls between the ages of 5-12, and Advanced for girls between 10-18—has its own set of exciting, age-appropriate materials. For further information, get our free International Review Packet, and look through all the curriculum materials we offer in our online store.

Many of our resources are downloadable. If you choose to order material via international post, please allow 3-4 weeks for delivery.

For how long can I use the GEMS International curriculum?

Any GEMS material you have purchased or downloaded can be used for as long as needed. However, no material may be reproduced for commercial or sale purposes. See below for more information on reprinting.

Can the GEMS International curriculum be reprinted?

Some GEMS material, such as our downloadable lessons, may be reprinted in limited quantities. Only those items which are clearly marked as ‘reproducible material’ may be copied. Note that these copies are only for club use. They may not be resold in any manner and doing so is a violation of our copyright policy.

How often should Club Coordinators and counsellors meet?

It is up to each club to decide on the frequency of meetings, though we encourage all club leaders to meet regularly. Such meetings would typically include prayer time, sharing concerns and encouraging each other, discussing issues related to club, and reviewing teaching methods and training tools. Additionally, it would be helpful for club leaders to go through the Training and Resources section together and to check back regularly for updates.

How often do club leaders require training?

Club leaders may choose to review teaching techniques as often as they meet. It may be beneficial to assign one day each month or every few months to focus on training together and stay updated with the latest training and resources provided on our website.

How can I connect with other clubs and counsellors in my area?

Email GEMS International for contact details of clubs in your area. We will respond as soon as possible with the required information. You can then contact the church or Christian organization to find out when and where the club meets as well as the name of the Club Coordinator who can provide you with more information.

What can I do if my church cannot financially support a club?

Consider ways to raise funds for your club. Refer to our fundraising page for tips and more information. You can also email us with an appeal for financial assistance. Your club may be eligible for a year’s worth of curriculum material at no cost, depending on the ministry’s availability of club sponsorship.