Children, Youth and Families Ministry Training

Forming Confident Leaders for Ministry with Children, Young People, and Families

Programme Overview

This training pathway is designed for individuals seeking to develop their calling and competence in ministry with children, young people, and families. Whether you’re exploring ministry for the first time or looking to deepen your theological and practical formation, this programme offers both flexibility and academic rigour.

Delivered part-time over two years, the course combines accredited academic modules, practical skills training, reflective formation, and supportive community. It prepares participants to lead with theological confidence, pastoral sensitivity, and contextual understanding.

Students can choose to pursue the full programme for academic credit (Certificate of Higher Education, validated by the University of Durham), or follow a non-accredited portfolio route. Modules may also be taken individually to suit specific training needs.

Programme Highlights

• 8 University-accredited modules (120 credits at Level 4) over two years

• Facilitated online formation groups supporting peer learning and reflective practice

• Flexible ‘flipped classroom’ model enabling remote and accessible learning

• Option to study for credit or audit via the non-credit portfolio route

• Fully online delivery, with the option of in-person intensive teaching weeks

Accredited Modules

1. Preparing to Learn: Doctrine, Scripture & Prayer (TMM1207) – 10 credits
   Foundations in reflective learning grounded in Christian spiritual practices.

2. Introduction to Spirituality and Discipleship (TMM1517) – 10 credits
   An introduction to Christian spiritual disciplines and discipleship models, with specific application to children and young people.

3. Introduction to the Bible (TMM1031) – 20 credits
   A survey of biblical structure, themes, and interpretation methods, with attention to engaging younger audiences.

4. Brief Introduction to Pastoral Care (TMM1421) – 20 credits
   Principles and practices of pastoral care, with particular focus on ministry to children, young people, and families.

5. Option A: Basic Playwork Skills and Children’s Work Practice (TMM1491) – 20 credits
   Practical skills and theological reflection for children’s ministry through play and activities.
   OR
   Option B: Basic Youth Work Skills and Practice (TMM1501) – 20 credits
   Core competencies for youth work, including safeguarding, boundaries, and theological engagement.

6. Creeds and Councils (TMM1121) – 20 credits
   Exploration of the major ecumenical creeds and councils, with practical application for communicating Christian doctrine.

7. Introduction to Theology and Human Development in Childhood (TMM1561) – 20 credits
   A theological and developmental approach to childhood and adolescence, with implications for faith formation.

Learning Approach

Flipped Classroom Model

• Core content (lectures, readings, multimedia resources) is available online for flexible, self-paced study.

• Live online sessions focus on discussion, reflection, and contextual application.

Optional In-Person Intensives

• Three modules are offered in Cambridge through intensive residential weeks for those who prefer face-to-face learning.

• Accommodation and meals are arranged separately.

Facilitated Formation Groups

• Regular online groups led by experienced practitioners.

• Emphasis on prayer, peer engagement, vocational reflection, and Reformed spiritual formation.

Accreditation & Study Options

Accredited Pathway

• Award: Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) through Durham University (120 credits at Level 4)

• Duration: Two years (part-time)

• Fee: £3,500 per year

• Additional costs may apply for in-person teaching (accommodation and meals)

Non-Credit Portfolio Pathway

• Students complete a Reflective Portfolio including:

  • Reflections on learning

  • Practical ministry applications

  • Engagement with selected readings

• Award: Certificate of Participation with tutor feedback

• Fee: £1,750 per year

• Additional costs may apply for in-person teaching (accommodation and meals)

Ongoing Support

• Access to experienced theological educators and pastoral mentors

• Integrated vocational and academic development

• Personalised support throughout the programme

Who Should Apply?

This programme is ideal for:

• Paid or voluntary Children’s, Youth, and Family Ministry Leaders

• Ordinands and ministry trainees with a focus on younger generations

• Church leaders seeking to grow their theological understanding and ministry practice

• Those discerning a call to ministry among children, youth, and families

Progression Opportunities

Graduates of the programme may:

• Continue toward further theological qualifications

• Step into leadership roles in youth or children’s ministry

• Serve more confidently in local church or parachurch contexts

• Contribute to the wider formation of the next generation in a Reformed tradition