What is the aim of the course?
To ensure that those called by God in Christ and equipped by the Holy Spirit to ministry in God's Church are firmly grounded in the faith of the Church, that they are enabled to grow in theological understanding and to be visibly women and men of prayer so that they may be effective proclaimers and teachers of the faith.
To enable those who minister to be self-aware, disciplined and responsive in their ministry in order to become effective leaders and ministers in the full Eucharistic life of the Church in which they are called to serve.
To equip Christian disciples to live out the Gospel in their own specific life and calling.
How much time will it take?
Courses normally last 3 years (prior to ordination) or 2 years (prior to being licensed as a Reader). They are designed to be undertaken by someone in full-time employment. This does not mean they are easy. What is does mean is that they will be arranged in such a way as not to preclude someone in work.
Each module of the course will involve attending tutorial groups, preparatory reading and the completion of a number of written pieces for assessment. This will mean that students will need to probably stop doing some things in order to create the necessary space for the course.
What is the authority of the course?
The course has a double authority. First, it is validated by the Church of England and Methodist Church and others (as required) to train people for ordination and to be Readers. Secondly, it is validated academically through the University of Cumbria.
How do I qualify to join the course?
There are no educational qualifications required in order to join the course other than a willingness to learn. The course is committed to providing training for all who have been recommended for training by either national selection for ordained ministry or Diocesan selection for Reader ministry.
Independent students should contact the Principal in the first instance.