The latest cohort of First Timers have completed the year-long course equipping and empowering them to effectively support, engage and share the Gospel with children, families and young people in their parishes.
The nine individuals leading or supporting children, families and youth ministries across the diocese celebrated completing the First Timers course in June. The celebration saw them joined by their church leaders, course leaders Emma Coy and Alastair Etheridge, and Bishop Paul Davies, as they reflected on their time on the course and received their certificates.
Our First Timers’ course is designed for those new to children and families or youth ministry and covers the basics that a professional Youth or Children and Families Worker should know.
On the course, students receive training in theology, work structuring and practical skills, as well as site visits and more. Training sessions take place once a week partly happening in person and online, with an expectation for time to be set aside for further reading and reflection.
Students from this year have said:
“The course has been a real highlight of my week, I’ve learnt so much and met some truly amazing and inspiring people.”
“I loved First Timers! It was really good fun as well as really relevant.”
“I can’t think of a better way to start your week and start your career in children's ministry.”
A church leaders added, “The content is great and it could improve your kid’s ministry and shape the whole of your church.”
Students include paid workers from churches and organisations as well as volunteers who are keen to learn more. The First Timer training scheme is also open to those unable to commit to the whole course, allowing them to join for individual sessions.
Alastair Etheridge, Project Lead for the Youth Catalyst Project and co-lead for First Timers says, “We love spending time with the First Timers, seeing them grow, develop and find confidence in their sense of calling as they combine learning, practice and reflection.”
Applications for the next cohort are open until the end of September, although the team will consider applications all year round for those who wish to join part of the course. Visit our website for more details or contact Emma Coy if you would like to discuss the opportunities for you or someone on your teams.
We wish the best for our 2023/24 cohort and look forward to seeing the amazing work they are part of in the coming years.