OPEN TO APPLICANTS FOR 2026/2027
Wanting to take a year out to explore your calling, serving in an area of church ministry?
The Diocese of Guildford is running the Ministry Experience Scheme (MES) alongside the New Wine Discipleship Year (DY) to aim to help those aged 18-30 gain valuable vocational and leadership experience as they serve for a year in a church placement. The aim of the schemes is to help participants test a sense of vocational calling and gifting alongside some theological training. Both schemes work very similarly, with MES having a strong empahsis on vocational discernment, while New Wine DY helps participants explore multiple areas of ministry in discipleship with others. By integrating both schemes into one programme, we hope that participants will benefit from the opportunities for community and ministrerial development which come from both.
The year is non-salaried and voluntary, however, churches are able to supply a living allowance, as well as find host accommodation if required. Course fees and enrolment is zero cost to participants.
You will be expected to attend various conferences, residentials, and a trip abroad during the year. You will also be participating at New Wine Festival.
You can find out more information on the Church of England website here: The Ministry Experience Scheme | The Church of England and on New Wine's website here: Discipleship Year - New Wine
Applicant information for 2026/27
Thinking of becoming a participant? We would love to be able to help you explore your calling. Please see our Applicant Information Pack here which explains how we run MES, Future Youth, and the New Wine Discipleship Year within the Diocese of Guildford.
If you're ready to apply, please fill out this form, ticking the Guildford Hub and that you are also interested in MES.
Our final deadline for applicants is August 2026.
Church Information - Becoming a placement for 2026/27
Interested in becoming a church placement in 2026-2027 for a ministry participant? Please see our Church Placement Application Pack here for details on how we are running the scheme and all deadlines.
PLEASE APPLY USING OUR APPLICATION FORM: MES/Future Youth and New Wine Discipleship Year Church Placement Application Form – Fill out form
Our deadline for accepting placement applications is Friday 27 February 2026.
Please get in touch with our MES and DY Coordinator to register interest or ask any questions about becoming a church placement: sophie.blake@cofeguildford.org.uk