At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative discipleship training and develop lay ministry programmes for a year.
- Company: Dynamic church organisation focused on growth and community impact.
- Benefits: Gain leadership experience, network with diverse communities, and contribute to meaningful change.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and engage with vibrant church communities across Nottinghamshire.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your skills in ministry and leadership.
- Qualifications: Experience in ministry or education, strong leadership and communication skills.
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 position 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.
This post offers the opportunity to lead in these areas for 12 months, providing maternity cover for the current role holder.
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: The 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 is rooted in compassion, confidence, and courage, making it an ideal place for those passionate about nurturing lay ministry and discipleship.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School of Discipleship Lead - Maternity Cover
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before applying, reach out for an informal chat with the Director of Discipleship & Ministry. It’s a great way to show your enthusiasm and get a feel for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for discipleship! When you get the chance to speak with them, share your experiences and ideas on how to enhance lay ministry training. We love fresh perspectives!
✨Tip Number 3
Be visible! If you can, attend events or services in the diocese. This will help you connect with the community and demonstrate your commitment to growing disciples of Christ.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to bring Living Hope to Nottinghamshire and beyond.
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 dive into your application, take a moment to familiarise yourself with our School of Discipleship and its mission. Understanding our vision will help you tailor your application to show how you can contribute to our goals.
Be Authentic:When 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 how it aligns with our values.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any relevant experience you have in ministry or training roles. We’re looking for someone who can lead and inspire, so give us examples of how you've done this in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and helps us keep track of your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Church of England
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the School of Discipleship's mission and the specific programmes they offer. Brush up on the DISCIPLE materials and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their vision of growing disciples with compassion, confidence, and courage.
✨Show Your Passion for Discipleship
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for discipleship training and ministerial development. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to fostering lay leadership and enhancing diversity in ministry.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask about the role and the team. This shows your genuine interest and helps you understand how you can best fit into their existing structure and contribute to their goals.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
Highlight your ability to work well with others, especially in a church context. Discuss any past experiences where you’ve successfully collaborated with teams or led initiatives that align with the diocesan vision and strategy.
