Children, Families and Youth Workers

If you’ve been recently appointed as a Children's Families and/or Youth Worker, this course is for you. Some students are ‘career changers’ who come in as professional workers having done something else first, others are just starting out in ministry such as those taking a year out, either between A Levels and university or after university. Others are serving as volunteers but are keen to learn more. All are welcome!

We also invite those unable to commit to the whole course to join us for individual sessions. This year we are particularly encouraging those who are already in post, and may have previously completed the course, to come back for some of the afternoon theology sessions which have been recently introduced.

The course aims to cover the basics that a professional Youth or Children and Families Worker should know, such as theology, how to structure your work, practical skills, site visits around the diocese, and many other things (see below for details). 

Assessment is by two written assignments and one presentation, each of which will be discussed throughout the course. We expect students to set aside time for reading and reflection during the course. Set books will be discussed during the sessions. Students are also expected to lead opening worship on a rota basis.

Yes! If the September start doesn't work for you, it may be possible to join the course at the beginning of another term or half term. It is also possible to join in with some individual sessions for those who are interested in some of the topics but are unable to commit to the whole course. This year we are particularly encouraging those who are already in post, and may have previously completed the course, to come back for some of the afternoon theology sessions which have been recently introduced.

The cost is £150 per term for the whole course or £15 per session for individual sessions. The 'theology top-up' sessions cost £40 per term or £8 for individual sessions. 

The course is tutored by Emma Coy and Alastair Etheridge, with speakers drawn in to teach on various specialist topics throughout the course. 

"I am amazed at the detail, quality and relevance of the content."

"I feel I have a great grounding for pretty much everything that I will be facing in my role and if there are any gaps in the future I know I can ask."

"I think the course is fab."

"It's a lovely introduction to children's ministry. The course tutors are lovely and they take you through all the topics that you might need to know when starting to work with children."

"I couldn't recommend this course more, it's amazing and overflowing with knowledge, advice, practical things to implement and opens your eyes to everything you didn't know you needed to know. E&A are incredible facilitators, it has improved my ministry, faith and life enormously."

"It helps you build a good clear foundation, including good practice about all aspects of working within a 'faith' setting whilst also developing and exploring your faith."

"I understand that I am equipped for a battle for young people, God has really spoke to me this year throughout the course."

"X really enjoyed and benefited from the course."

"It has equipped and encouraged X in her calling and her work here."

"Overall the breadth of content was extremely helpful and thought provoking with regards our youth ministry streams."

"The variety of areas covered and the depth of reflection and learning has been really helpful. She is raring to go with her big ideas now which is very exciting."

"Excellent value all round."

"It has helped X to grow in confidence and have some specific training for the role."

"I think she herself would acknowledge just how much the course and role have brought her 'gifts' she didn't anticipate."

"Her confidence and her ability to think wider especially have grown."

"It has been lovely to see her flourish but also watching her grow in her ability to reflect on what we are doing in the parish."

"The course has given her confidence and helped her to look at a wide range of subjects giving her time to explore ideas and meet people with similar roles."

"I'd recommend it."

"An excellent, rounded, programme where attendees are given space to think and grow, to build confidence through shared learning and peer support, with practical 'hands on' and reflective theological input and wide ranging input from a raft of experienced practitioners all contributing to a powerful and meaningful experience for the First Timers. Sign your First Timers up asap."

"A really valuable course and worth the investment for anyone new to Children and Youth work."

"It has been a hugely positive experience for my First Timers."

Spring Term session dates and topics

Summer Term session dates and topics