The Sphere Training of Trainers (ToT)

Organized by: CARE Bangladesh and SPHERE Community Bangladesh (SCB) and Facilitated by: Foundation for Disaster Forum

• Online Sessions: October 19– November 9, 2024
• In-Person Sessions: December 1–3, 2024, Dhaka, Bangladesh

1) Background and Objectives

The Training of Trainers (ToT) on Sphere was organized by CARE Bangladesh. In the process Humanitarian and Climate Action Program (HCAP) of CARE joined hand with Bangladesh Sphere Community Bangladesh (SCB)to make the programme success. Foundation for Disaster Forum (DF) was entrusted in developing and designing the module, contents and materials in consultation with all interested actors. With the request of Disaster Forum “Community World Asia” also extended their cooperation.

DF took help from its partners and allies to ensure the support of highly skilled and knowledgeable resource persons. DF maintained a network of Sphere trainers who are equipped with updated version of Sphere and training tools. By tailoring the training to the local context and humanitarian environment of the country, the training ensured useful learning of global Sphere principles and the way of adapt them to the nuances of Bangladesh’s socio-cultural, environmental, and disaster-prone realities. This approach was intended to empower trainers to lead impactful, contextually relevant humanitarian interventions, fostering a deeper understanding and adoption of Sphere standards within their organizations and communities.

The program was strategically designed to:

• Equip participants with essential training Skills: Equip participants with the necessary knowledge, skills, and methodologies to effectively deliver Sphere training programs to diverse audiences.
• Promote practical application of Sphere standards: Strengthen participants’ understanding of the Sphere Handbook and its practical application in humanitarian programming.
• Enhance emergency response capacities: Build participants’ capacities to address complex challenges encountered in disaster and emergency response settings, ensuring the effective integration of Sphere standards into real-world scenarios.
• Develop a Community of Humanitarian Leaders: Encourage a team of skilled humanitarian professionals dedicated to upholding the Sphere principles in their work.

2) Training Design and Structure

By employing a blended learning model that combined virtual and in-person components, the program ensured both flexibility and a comprehensive learning experience. This approach balanced theoretical foundations with hands-on practice, enabling participants to effectively internalize and apply Sphere standards in diverse operational settings

In all eight co-facilitators facilitated the training under the guidance of the lead facilitator. All facilitators are well experienced trainers on Sphere and have field-based knowledge of humanitarian response and management. The said training program consisted of three core components:

A. Online Learning

This component was designed to establish foundational knowledge and introduce participants to Sphere concepts in a flexible format.

• Sphere Online Courses: Participants were required to complete at least two online Sphere courses, including “How to Use the SPHERE Handbook” and “How to Be a Sphere Champion.” These provided an introduction to SPHERE principles, technical chapters, and practical applications.
• Interactive Online Sessions: A total of 19 live virtual sessions were conducted over three weeks. Topics included:
  • The Sphere Foundation Chapter and Core Humanitarian Standards.
  • Technical chapters covering WASH, food security, shelter, health, and cross-cutting protection principles.
  • Practical aspects of humanitarian coordination, assessment, program monitoring, and evaluation.
  • Facilitators used live discussions, breakout rooms, and Q&A to foster real-time engagement.

B. Assignments

To bridge theory with practice, participants were divided into six groups and assigned thematic issues relevant to humanitarian response, including:

• Challenges in WASH, food security & nutrition, shelter, and health interventions during emergencies.
• Strategies for overcoming these challenges while adhering to minimum standards.
• Capacity and vulnerability analysis during crises.
• Integrating protection principles in disaster response.

Each group developed solutions aligned with the standards and presented their findings during the in-person sessions, fostering peer-to-peer learning and collaboration.

C. In-Person Workshops

The in-person segment emphasized hands-on learning and participant-led training exercises. Held over three days in Dhaka, these workshops included:

• Discussions on the unanswered questions/queries raised in the online sessions and thereafter. Challenges faced in the last recent (eastern flood) also discussed in the light of CHS and minimum standard.
• Group Presentations: Participants presented their assignment findings, followed by detailed discussions and feedback from facilitators and peer
• Hands-On Practice: Activities focused on applying Sphere standards in realistic scenarios, such as creating WASH indicators, designing shelter interventions, and addressing food security challenges.
• Participant-Led Sessions: Each participant led a mini-training session to enhance confidence to run the training sessions and have some practical understanding.

D. Session with Sphere global

On the second day of the in-person training, Ms. Felicity Fallon, Head of Learning and Events at Sphere Global, joined as a guest speaker, delivering an inspiring and insightful session. She began by engaging with participants in an introductory session, creating an inclusive and open atmosphere. Ms. Fallon emphasized the importance of the Sphere Handbook in ensuring quality and accountability in humanitarian responses. She also provided a comprehensive overview of how individuals can connect with Sphere Global, access valuable resources available on the Sphere website, and leverage them for professional growth. Additionally, she outlined the process for becoming certified Sphere trainers, encouraging participants to actively contribute to humanitarian initiatives and strengthen their involvement in global efforts. Ms. Fallon’s session left participants motivated and charged with the knowledge to make a meaningful impact in their humanitarian endeavor.

3) Participant Profile

Training of Trainers (ToT) on The SPHERE program brought together twenty-six (26) experienced professionals from a range of humanitarian organizations, reflecting a diverse mix of backgrounds and expertise. This cohort included: 10 participants from CARE Bangladesh, 11 participants from national NGOs, 4 participants from international NGOs and 1 participant from a Startup network which reflects a well-balanced representation of experienced professionals from different organizational levels, contributing to a dynamic and collaborative learning environment.Of the 26 participants, 21 were men and 5 were women (only 19%), highlighting both the engagement of men professionals and a recognition of the need for greater gender inclusivity in humanitarian training.

4) Key Highlights and Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

• Participants gained a strong understanding of the Sphere Handbook, including technical standards and protection principles. Enhanced capabilities in MEAL, WASH, Food security & Nutrition, Shelter & Settlement, Health interventions, and Humanitarian coordination. And also gained confidence in delivering Sphere training sessions to varied audiences.
• Participants developed the ability to navigate and apply Sphere standards in diverse humanitarian settings. Ability to design sector-specific interventions (e.g., WASH or shelter) aligned with Sphere principles. And also, able to conduct assessments and implement programs that respect community capacities and vulnerabilities.
• The training fostered a strong network of Sphere advocates. Participants exchanged ideas, shared best practices, and committed to ongoing collaboration, ensuring continuous improvement in their humanitarian work.

5) Participant Feedback/Summary of the Evaluation

a. Overall Satisfaction and Engagement

Participants expressed high levels of satisfaction with the program, with many ratings it as “Excellent” ((87.5%) in post-training evaluations. The training’s unique blended approach,which combined online modules, interactive virtual sessions, and in-person workshops, was highly appreciated for its flexibility and comprehensive design. Participants highlighted the balance between theory and practice, noting that the program allowed them to immediately apply concepts to real-world humanitarian challenges.  

The in-person sessions, in particular, stood out as the most impactful component, fostering active collaboration, peer learning, and hands-on practice. Participants noted that these sessions brought the Sphere standards to life, enabling them to visualize their application in field contexts.

b. Relevance and Quality of Content

The content was widely regarded as relevant and comprehensive, tailored to address the needs of humanitarian professionals working in diverse sectors such as WASH, food security, shelter, and health interventions. Key aspects of the training that were highlighted include that the Sphere Handbook’s Foundation Chapter and the Core Humanitarian Standards were well-explained, providing participants with a solid base for understanding the principles behind the standards. Sessions on sectoral topics such as WASH, food security & Nutrition, shelter & settlement and health interventions were praised for their detailed exploration of key indicators and guidelines.

A total 75% (18 respondents) agreed that the subject matter was adequately covered. The program received positive feedback, with most participants appreciating the subject matter coverage (75%), program pacing (83.3%), and encouragement to participate (79.2%). Content suitability (62.5%) and handout relevance (70.8%) were well-received, though some respondents expressed neutrality or mild dissatisfaction. Achievement of objectives (66.7%) and job relevance (66.7%) were generally affirmed, with a few dissenters. Overall, 70.8% would recommend the program to colleagues, reflecting its perceived value despite areas for improvements.

However, participants expressed interest in more focused discussions on sector-specific topics, particularly:

• Advanced WASH standards, including water quality and sanitation in urban and rural emergencies.
• Scenario-based applications of Sphere standards in real-world crises, such as refugee camp management or sudden-onset disasters.
• Integration of cross-cutting themes like gender-based protection and accountability to affected populations.

c. Facilitation and Training Methods

The facilitators’ ability to align global Sphere standards with the specific challenges and opportunities of the Bangladesh context was particularly appreciated. The facilitators received unanimous praise for their engaging and participatory teaching methods. The use of diverse techniques such as:

• Group discussions and exercises: These promoted critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving.
• Scenario simulations: These were effective in helping participants visualize the practical application of Sphere standards.

While the methods were largely appreciated, participants provided suggestions for improvement:

• Incorporation of more simulations: Participants recommended increasing the use of real-world scenarios to deepen understanding of the challenges faced in humanitarian crises.
• Case studies: Requests were made for more region-specific case studies, particularly focusing on humanitarian responses in South Asia.
• Interactive online tools: Participants suggested using additional tools such as polls, quizzes, or interactive whiteboards during virtual sessions to sustain engagement and facilitate participation.

d. Perceived Strengths of the Program

Participants identified several aspects of the training that stood out as strengths:

• Blended format: The combination of online and in-person learning was widely appreciated for accommodating diverse professional schedules while maintaining a high standard of content delivery.
• Collaborative learning environment: The training facilitated peer-to-peer exchanges, enabling participants to share experiences and learn from diverse perspectives.
• Practical assignments: Assignments encouraged participants to think critically about real-world challenges and devise actionable solutions that align with Sphere standards.

6. Areas for Improvement/Recommendation from Participants

While participants were overwhelmingly positive about the training, they highlighted areas that could be improved to enhance future iterations:

a. Increased In-Person Sessions

• Feedback: Many participants felt the in-person component was too short to cover practical exercises comprehensively. They emphasized the value of face-to-face interactions in strengthening understanding and fostering collaboration.
• Suggestion: Extend the in-person sessions to allow for deeper exploration of technical topics and more hands-on exercises.

b. Depth of Sector-Specific Content

• Feedback: Although the training covered broad humanitarian themes, participants expressed the need for more advanced content tailored to specific sectors, such as advanced WASH standards, disaster risk reduction, and cash-based programming.
• Suggestion: Develop focused modules or breakout sessions for specialized topics, catering to professionals seeking in-depth technical knowledge.

c. Enhancing Online Session Engagement

• Feedback: Some participants noted challenges in maintaining focus during online sessions due to the limitations of virtual learning. Issues like intermittent connectivity and limited interactive tools affected engagement.
• Suggestion: Introduce more multimedia content, such as animations or interactive dashboards, to make online sessions more dynamic and engaging. Breakout groups for small-scale discussions could also encourage active participation.

d. Follow-Up and Refresher Courses

• Feedback: Participants expressed a desire for periodic follow-up sessions to revisit key concepts, share experiences, and refine their skills over time.
• Suggestion: Develop an annual calendar of refresher courses or advanced training programs, including thematic workshops or webinars.

The Sphere ToT program concluded with certificate distribution. Significant participation from humanitarian practitioners across Bangladesh joined in the closing session to encourage the participants. The closing session featured prominent attendees, including the Director General of the Disaster Management Department, the Country Director of CARE Bangladesh, the Head of Delegation for IFRC, and representatives from various organizations. They collectively emphasized that the Sphere Handbook and the Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS) are more than just guidelines or checklists; they represent a practice and a process that extend beyond emergency response and should be integrated into development work. They also underscored the importance of establishing strong coordination among all relevant stakeholders in humanitarian response to ensure the quality of interventions and the well-being of affected communities. We are also grateful to Community World Asia (CWA) the Asian representative of global Sphere family for their support and contribution.