First Timer Training Scheme

Every year, the diocese offers a training scheme to people working as children’s or youth workers for the first time. Some are doing that as a year out, either between A levels and university or after university and some are career changers who come in as professional workers having done something else first. All are welcome! The course aims to cover the basics that a professional youth or children’s worker should know from theology to how to structure your work to practical skills, site visits around the diocese and many other things (see below for details). We meet on Mondays, from 11am to 3.30pm and a new course convenes each September. It may, though, be possible to join the course at the beginning of another term by special arrangement.

Previous students of the course say:
'very good for support'
'both in content and the very fact that it exists helped me loads during my first year'
'it opened my eyes to the bigger picture'
'what was most useful was being able to speak freely and honestly about struggles with work, and knowing that you are not the only one'

The course of 2011

The course takes place at the Education Centre, and costs £150 per term, to cover course costs and lunch. To enquire about the course, or to book a place for yourself or a gap year student in your church, contact David or phone 01483 484908.

First Timer Training Scheme Syllabus

During the first term, we will study:

• What is Youth Ministry?
• A Theology of Youth Ministry (inside out, outside in, repainting and passion)
• The Land of youth (culture, development, spirituality, school)
• Child Protection
• Site Visits (village)
   

In the second term, we will study:

• Healthy Youth Work (Vision and Values, Self Management, Teams, Schools)
• Models of Ministry (Congregational, Intergenerational)
• Site Visits (Godly Play and City Centre)
   

Then, in the final term, we will study:

• Working with others (Ecumenically, Chaplaincy, Adults, National Scene)
• Resourcing yourself and your work
• Initiation
• Site Visit (Partnership working)
• Keeping Going
   

The course is tutored by David Welch and Alison Hendy, the Diocesan Youth Adviser and Children’s Work Adviser, with speakers drawn in to teach on various specialist topics throughout the course. Assessment is by two 1500 word essays 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.

For further information or to book onto the course, email David, or phone him on (01483) 484908 in the first instance.

• Introduction
  • First Timer Training Scheme
  • Sample Policies and Procedures
• Children's Work
• Youth Work
• Resource Centre
• Safeguarding and CRB