Robin Barden, Co-designer of the Ridley Online course for youth, children's and sports workers, shares how his own story provided the motivation to create the course.
Where are you in your journey towards God’s calling on your life? I know that God continually surprises me in my own journey.
Shortly after I came to faith as a teenager, I found myself drawn to sharing that faith with other young people. I enjoyed volunteering at my local church, but began to feel that I needed a firmer foundation to follow my calling. So I went back to study – at Ridley Hall in Cambridge – and years later I now dedicate my time to helping others on a similar journey.
Not everyone has the circumstances to allow them to give up work to study at our Cambridge campus. And that’s why we developed the Ridley Online course for children’s and youth workers. We designed it specifically for someone who longs to grow in their ministry with children or/and young people and feel more confident talking about their faith. Study can fit around life commitments, not the other way around.
You can choose the level of qualification that suits your circumstances: we offer a Foundation Award (three modules spread across one year) or the Certificate in Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission (six modules taught across one, two or three years). Both are fully online validated courses taken within a supportive and strong community that learns together.
Studying with Ridley Online
As a Ridley Online student, you’ll join Monday evening zoom classes with leading practitioners and scholars online during term time, and undertake guided tasks in your own time during the week.
Alongside the online training, you’ll be able to meet with an experienced tutor once a month, who will support you to get the most out of the course.
“The ridley tutors are so supportive, helpful, and friendly.
You are made to feel very welcomed and appreciated.”
Current student at Ridley Online
Book a one-to-one chat
As someone who struggled with school and didn’t come to further study until much later in life, I know how daunting even the first step can be. And that’s why I’d love to chat with you about your dreams and aspirations for ministry study. Just click below to arrange a time that works for you:
Join an online open day
At 6pm on Monday 4th July we are holding a zoom open day. This is another way to meet and talk with us. Whether it’s a one-to-one chat or at the online open day, we would love to meet you. Sign up for free below and we’ll be in touch with the joining link:
Thank you for reading, and I hope to meet you soon.
In Christ,
Robin Barden
Co-designer of Ridley Online
