Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of young people?
The Diocese of Guildford is thrilled to announce an incredible opportunity for up to eight passionate individuals to join our groundbreaking Youth Catalyst Project as Trainee Youth Leaders!
What You'll Do:
As a Trainee Youth Leader, you'll be at the forefront of pioneering missional youth ministry, working with 11 to 18-year-olds in vibrant church communities. You'll be employed by the Diocese but deployed to churches where you'll lead, inspire, and nurture young minds.
Why This Role is Special:
Transformative Training: Dive into our First Timers programme in Year 1, laying the essential foundations for working with young people. In Years 2, 3, and 4, deepen your knowledge through our youth ministry training pathway, studying Theology, Mission, and Ministry to degree level.
Hands-On Experience: Learn while you serve! You'll be actively involved in the church, applying your theological learning in real-world contexts.
Long-Term Impact: After four years of immersive training, continue your journey full-time in Years 5 and 6, making a lasting impact in your placements.
We are looking for Trainees who:
Have a deep and vibrant Christian faith.
Are committed to long-term youth ministry and love working alongside young people.
Have a desire to engage in theological learning and development, and you're willing to grow and work collaboratively.
Understand the importance of effective safeguarding procedures.
Are relatable and connect well with both young people and adults.
Ready to think deeply, model consistency, and invite others into the exciting journey of following Jesus.
Have 3 A levels (or equivalent).
Benefits of the role include:
Competitive salary within the Charity Sector
A 10% non-contributory pension
Life assurance provision of 3x annual salary
25 days annual leave per year, plus bank holidays
An employee assistance programme
Learning and development opportunities
Ready to Embark on This Exciting Journey? Please read the attached Trainee Info Pack for more details which includes the list of the 8 churches which are part of this year’s placements.
Ready to Apply?
Follow the links to our diocesan website to submit your CV along with a detailed supporting statement (cover letter), telling us why you are excited to become a Trainee Youth Leader and how you envision making a difference. If you have a particular church in mind where you would love to serve, feel free to let us know in your statement.
We will shortlist and interview on a rolling basis as applications are received and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early.
This role carries an occupational requirement to be a practising Christian in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.
The Diocese of Guildford take our responsibility for the safeguarding of children and adults seriously. Our recruitment processes reflect this commitment.
We believe that diversity is a strength. We actively welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities, particularly those who identify as female, younger, of a UK Minority Ethnic/Global Majority Heritage, or disabled, as it's essential that we reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.
Please note that if you are shortlisted and are unable to attend on the interview date it may not be possible to offer you an alternative date.
Our network of parishes covers the entire geographical area of the diocese, with churches located in all kinds of different contexts, from tiny rural communities to the busy commuter towns, areas of challenging social deprivation and others of great affluence.
Every church is encouraged, resourced and inspired through the diocesan leadership to be a transforming church, transforming lives
So churches are there for everyone, providing opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to pray, to explore their faith, to access support, to make a positive impact locally and globally, and to be supported at significant moments in their lives such as a wedding, a christening, a confirmation or a funeral.
Each parish is an independent charity, with its own leadership and governance structures and an ordained Minister responsible for pastoral care, as well as the running and legal responsibilities of the parish church for that area. They may be assisted by one or more Curates and there may be more than one church in each parish.
Through Deanery meetings, parishes help each other in prayer, finances and mutual support.