What will it cost me?

Money

If you are an Anglican you will be guaranteed a grant to cover all these costs. Once you have been formally accepted on to the Course you need to apply to the Ministry Division for the fee (which is not means-tested) which then comes direct to NOC. In addition you may receive via your DDO (depending upon your income and circumstances) a small sum for books each term and then travelling expenses are claimed each term or yearly from the Ministry Division.

If you are a Methodist, you will need to apply to the Methodist Church for grants.

Students not doing the Course as ordination training will need to pay their own fees or apply to their LEA for a discretionary award.

Most course members have their fees and costs paid in full.

Time

Think in terms of 12 hours a week — excluding the weeknight session. This is an average: people’s situations at home and at work vary enormously. And some weeks you may do more, others less; the timetable of written work allows for this.

To make time and space for training, you must carefully review your existing commitments — including those at church. You need to maintain your roots in a worshipping and supporting community, but should not continue holding major responsibilities during training.

For instance:

If you are a Reader or a Local Preacher — reduce the frequency of commitments.
Continue to sing in the choir or be on the PCC — but give up being organist or treasurer.
Remain a member of your prayer group — but pass the leadership on.
Continue to review your commitments with your vicar or minister (who will be invited to visit the Course during your first year).

Other calls on your time will include:

Regular contact with a spiritual director or soul friend.
In the first two years, about 50 hours over a four-month period on a church or chaplaincy placement.