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I ran a large RPG club at a girls middle school for many years and do have thoughts and advice that I've updated. I’ll thread but also post here: gist.github.com/altercation/... Spoiler: A lot of my advice is not specific to RPGs! cc @montecookgames.com @jonesm80.bsky.social @aardwyrm.bsky.social

As an RPG nerd the temptation is to think about the games first. Don't. First thought should be constrained student schedules. School days are tight. Fit ANY system or play style to shorter sessions. If choosing lunch/after school look to maximize time slot. Be aware sports interfere after school.

Also not RPG specific: Make sure you get vetted and background checked with the school as a volunteer! These are standard procedures and they exist for a reason. Get in touch with the school main office or website for details.

ALSO ALSO not RPG specific: consider a way to keep the group in touch when not in club time. E.g. a Discord or other chat space where content can be shared. Be aware that this means you now have two complicated jobs (RPG club running and moderating a chat space with teens).

I prefer non D&D systems that run fast and lighter. I play a lot of Cypher System, Mothership, DCC, etc. Games like Shadowdark & others offer fast/fun f20 play. But if the students have their heart set on D&D and know it and want to run it, fait accompli. We played "D&D" in an OSR style.

Sessions should be designed to move FAST through action and interaction. Time constraints are the biggest constraint and you have to adapt style to this. If running in Discord and everyone including the school is ok with it, you could run longer remote sessions.

And finally: never, ever forget snacks. And plenty of dice.

That was such a fun week!

I *just* sold the air con unit i bought to cool down the basement room that summer!