Pioneer Ministry

South East Institute of Theological Education

There is a clear need in the UK today for ministers who are trained and ordained to plant and lead churches which express and embody the faith in a fresh way. We provide programmes of study to train people for pioneer ministry. Our pioneer ethos and practice is distinctive. We recognise the need for fresh expressions of church and for these fresh expressions to dig deep into the roots of our faith, uncovering the riches of the Christian tradition and bringing them to life in a new way. We recognise too the need of pioneer ministers to have the support and recognition of their colleagues in inherited models of church, and to this end our programmes involve courses and placements where pioneer and traditional ministers learn together and from each other – as well as specialist courses for pioneers.

Students training for pioneer ministry follow the Ordained Minister pathway, which involves evening classes and/or teaching days, residential events and placements. During evening classes and/or teaching days, you will study modules in the following three strands of our curriculum: Biblical Studies, Christian Doctrine and Ethics, and Church in Practice. You are expected to read, and complete normally two assignments per module. Training also involves participation in our residential programme which consists of six weekends plus a seven night residential school in each year of the programme.

PATHWAYS AND MODES OF STUDY

You will follow the Ordained Minister pathway within the Foundation Degree or BA (Hons). Which modules you take within that pathway depends on your specific needs, and whether you bring Accredited Prior Learning (APL) with you. This can take the form of previous study of theology at university level or completion of a nationally recognized programme of training for Christian ministry.

Many Ordained Ministry students study with us part-time for three years and will be awarded a Foundation Degree. However, students can now also study for the same qualification on a full-time mixed-mode basis. Students with some previous theological study may qualify for advanced status and study for the BA (Hons) degree. We also offer shortened programmes of two years part-time study for students who have studied theology and ministry in depth previously and these are arranged individually, building on what has already been learned and ensuring that students leave us with a fully rounded appreciation of theology for practical ministry at a high academic level. The qualifications for which such students are registered depend on the extent of previous study.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

For further details about the structure of the programme, please go to Where and When.

If you would like to train for ordained ministry at SEITE, you will need to complete an application form, please go to Applications & Fees.

For further details of how we might tailor a programme for you or if you would like further information on the course or have any further questions about it, please contact our admissions team.

SEITE Ground Floor, Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, Kent ME4 4HF • Tel: 01634 846683