The SSAT will ensure that every group has an identified group leader. Where possible this will be an LA official nominated by the LA, as able to take that responsibility and to contribute to post-visit dissemination. Where, for any reason, an LA is unable to provide such a person, the SSAT will seek to identify an appropriate person from its range of contacts.

The role of the group leader has a crucial part to play in the success of the SSAT study visits. Their main responsibility is to look after the group and to ensure that each member gets the most out of the visit.

Key responsibilities include:

• To support the group: 
- care of individuals
- developing thinking about themes and issues
- developing the group’s classroom observation skills
- promoting primary/secondary understanding

• Monitoring / pacing / adapting the programme, if necessary, in consultation with the local agent

• Working with the group on the last day to review the experience and begin to plan for return

• Dealing with emergencies