Are you called to children’s and family work?
Students specialising in children’s and family ministry are called to work with children of all ages and their families.
The work may focus on under 5s, primary school age, the transition into adolescence or involve engagement with all of these groups, and may take place in a church, school, community or other setting.
But at its heart will be the support of children in their emotional, physical, social, mental, spiritual and faith development.
- Why children’s and family workers choose to study here
-
Why children’s and family workers choose to study here
Applicants to Ridley wanting to specialise in children’s and family ministry have often already worked with children in a church context and come to Ridley looking to deepen their own theological understanding and to improve their ability to facilitate the faith development of others, particularly children.
- What makes a good children’s and family worker?
-
What makes a good children’s and family worker?
Students specialising in children’s and family ministry can be pastors or evangelists, teachers or prophets. Typically, they have an appreciation of and sensitivity to, the breadth of a child’s own faith and a desire to ensure they play a full part in the church community.
They often have a heart for young families, providing space, support and encouragement to parents, guardians and grandparents alike. Extraverted or introverted, they are often notable for their non-judgemental manner and calm presence within messy realities.
- How the course specialism resources you for this ministry
-
How the course specialism resources you for this ministry
All students at Ridley Hall undertake in-depth theological and biblical study as well as modules specific to ministry and mission in their specialism. The modules undertaken by children's and family ministry specialists at level 4 (Cert HE) include Children's and Family Ministry and Pastoral Care. At level 5 (HE Diploma) they include Leadership, Mission and Apologetics, and Discipleship. All students have the opportunity to undertake research in an area of interest at level 6 (BA Hons).
A key element of the student's learning takes place in ongoing ministerial practice. Students specialising in children's and family ministry will be placed within an existing team/ministry working with and reaching out to children and families.
To support deep learning, all students engage in theological reflection. Theological reflection occurs within all module teaching and in ministerial reflection groups. Students specialising in children's and family ministry will join a ministerial practice group facilitated by an experienced children's and family specialist minister.
Our Children's and Family Ministry specialist
