At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative discipleship training and develop lay ministry programmes.
- Company: Dynamic church organisation focused on growth and community impact.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a difference in the community and develop leadership skills.
- Other info: 12-month maternity cover with potential for creative programme development.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team and inspire others in their faith journey.
- Qualifications: Experience in ministry, leadership, and a passion for discipleship.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Since its launch in 2018, the School of Discipleship in Southwell & Nottingham Diocese has built both a wide and varied programme of learning opportunities and a strong reputation for excellence and discipleship/ministerial focus across church traditions, sizes and geographies. The focus has been on discipleship training (first through our RealLIFE course and now through the expanding suite of DISCIPLE materials) and ministerial development for Licensed Lay Ministry (as well as broadening some of our ministry skills training for all interested lay disciples). The School has also been at the forefront of seizing the opportunities offered by new learning technologies.
This post offers the opportunity to lead this ministry for 12 months, providing maternity leave cover for the current School of Discipleship Lead. The post will likely begin late‑October 2026, but ideally some limited transition work in September (to meet the new LLM cohorts) would be possible.
Purpose of Role
Our vision is to bring Living Hope to the City, Towns and Villages of Nottinghamshire & Beyond – which we believe we will do as we continue Growing Disciples of Christ with Compassion, Confidence and Courage. Our new DISCIPLE suite of resources builds out this vision: in its core module, exploring theologically and practically what it means to be compassionate, confident and courageous disciples; and in a series of new focus modules, exploring aspects of our diocesan vision’s 7 Areas of Focus. The School of Discipleship Lead has responsibility for this programme, as well as overseeing our exciting Licensed Lay Ministry training scheme and other ministry skills training for lay disciples.
Principal Tasks
- Contribute, alongside the Director of Discipleship & Ministry, to developing and leading the implementation of an innovative and coherent diocese‑wide lay ministry strategy, giving proactive consideration to identifying lay leaders who grow lay leaders, and enhancing diversity amongst those called to public ministry.
- Take overall responsibility for the delivery of our in‑house Licensed Lay Ministry training scheme, facilitating the discernment and formational development of candidates, delivery of modules, and appropriate arrangements to quality assure the programme.
- Develop creative and innovative ways to extend and strengthen the existing programmes, especially with an eye to enhancing the diversity both of candidates and the ministries they will exercise.
- Encourage lay discipleship in parishes through generating an imaginative, broad and engaging suite of resources, founded on the refreshed Disciple course.
- Collaborate with wider D&M team members and church leaders in providing training across the 7 Areas of Focus, developing plans and teams to create new resources, courses and events accordingly.
- Be visible within parishes and liaise with the diocesan Communications team to promote and recruit to all courses and programmes.
- Contribute to (and realise the benefits of) national and regional networks.
Additional responsibilities
- Play a full role in the life of the Discipleship & Ministry team, including participation in shared development activities and a willingness to engage and offer leadership (as required) in the team’s corporate life of prayer and worship.
- Coordinate with other diocesan teams as and where appropriate (either in a School of Discipleship capacity, or as a general representative of the Discipleship & Ministry team), and champion the diocesan Vision and Strategy in all contexts.
- Strategically provide Sunday support to Churches as agreed/where possible.
School of Discipleship Lead - Maternity Cover employer: Church of England
The School of Discipleship in Southwell & Nottingham Diocese is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead innovative discipleship training and ministerial development in a supportive and collaborative environment. With a strong focus on personal growth, diversity, and the integration of new learning technologies, employees are encouraged to thrive while making a meaningful impact in their communities. The work culture promotes compassion, confidence, and courage, aligning with our vision to bring Living Hope to Nottinghamshire and beyond.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School of Discipleship Lead - Maternity Cover
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the School of Discipleship. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Be visible! Attend events or workshops related to discipleship and ministry. This not only shows your commitment but also helps you meet potential colleagues and leaders who might be looking for someone just like you.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding the core values of the School of Discipleship. Think about how your experiences align with their vision of growing compassionate, confident, and courageous disciples.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace School of Discipleship Lead - Maternity Cover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us:Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand what we’re all about at the School of Discipleship. Familiarise yourself with our vision and values, as this will help you tailor your application to show how you fit into our mission.
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for discipleship and ministry. Authenticity goes a long way in making your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any relevant experience you have that aligns with the role. Whether it’s leading training sessions or developing resources, we want to know how your background prepares you for this position. Be specific!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Church of England
✨Know Your Discipleship Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the principles of discipleship and the specific programmes offered by the School of Discipleship. Familiarise yourself with the RealLIFE course and the new DISCIPLE materials, as well as how they align with the diocesan vision. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past. Highlight your experience in developing training programmes or working with lay leaders. This is crucial since the role involves overseeing the Licensed Lay Ministry training scheme and enhancing diversity among candidates.
✨Be Creative and Innovative
Think about ways to extend and strengthen existing programmes. Come up with a few ideas on how you could enhance the resources available for lay discipleship. Presenting fresh, imaginative concepts during your interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and commitment to growth.
✨Engage with the Community
Discuss your strategies for being visible within parishes and how you would promote courses and programmes. Show that you understand the importance of collaboration with church leaders and the wider D&M team. This will reflect your readiness to engage with the community and champion the diocesan vision.
