Why St Augustine’s College of Theology is the right place for your ordination training
Every September, first-year ordinands arrive at St Augustine’s College of Theology, full of anticipation and a deep sense of calling.
If you’re exploring where to begin your ordination journey, here’s why St Augustine’s might be the perfect place to grow your faith.
Theology study isn’t just for academics – it’s for everyone
Think ordination training is only for scholars? Think again!
Many of our students are stepping into theological study for the first time. Some haven’t studied for years, others are switching careers, and some haven’t studied at university level.
At St Augustine’s, theology is for everyone. You’ll learn in a supportive, down-to-earth environment alongside people like you.
Whether you’re returning to study after a break, exploring a brand-new path, or unsure if you ‘fit the mould’, you belong here – and we’ll support you with every step.
Find peace at our rural Kent campus
Love quiet spaces and natural beauty? You’ll feel right at home at our West Malling campus in Kent.
Nestled among landscaped gardens and historic buildings, it’s a special place that encourages reflection and calm. Our students often say the serene surroundings help them concentrate and connect with their learning and spiritual formation.
A nearby Benedictine community adds a unique spiritual draw to campus life; many students find it grounding and inspiring.
Ministerial training with a diverse student community
You’ll be part of a vibrant, welcoming student body at St Augustine’s. Our ordination training students come from across the UK and worldwide, and bring a rich mix of backgrounds and life stories. In your first year cohort, you might meet:
- Career changers such as former teachers, social workers or engineers
- People studying part-time while working
- Students of all ages
- Full-time ordinands beginning a new chapter
This diversity adds so much to classroom discussions, worship, and friendships; many students find lifelong friends here.
Prefer city life? Our London campus is full of energy
If city bustle is more your pace, you’ll love our Southwark campus at Trinity House in central London.
Located on Borough High Street, the campus is a short walk from London Bridge and Borough Market tube stations, and easily reached by train and bus. You’re also close to Southwark Cathedral, with its rich history and Gothic architecture.
For students living in or near London, this campus offers vibrant learning in the heart of the city. Our campuses are non-residential, so you don’t have to sleep here – you go home at the end of the day.
Excellent theology tutors
Our theology tutors are experts in their specialist academic fields. This means you’ll be taught by respected theologians involved in research, ministry, and spiritual formation.
St Augustine’s tutors and support staff walk alongside you – academically, personally and pastorally. We’re proud of our honorary fellows, research students, and broader academic community, who bring energy and fresh ideas to the college.
Explore ministry firsthand through exciting placements
Ordination training isn’t all in the classroom. You’ll also experience real-life ministry through placements and mission projects.
These experiences are key to your formation, helping you explore leadership, service, and where you feel most called. You could find yourself:
- Supporting youth and children’s work in schools or Sunday groups
- Taking part in mission work focused on social justice or the environment
- Helping chaplains in prisons or hospitals
- Visiting and offering pastoral care in care homes or hospices
- Volunteering with charities that support people experiencing addiction or mental health challenges
- Experiencing ministry in diverse, multicultural church settings
- Spending time with cathedral teams or learning about the wider work of the diocese
You won’t have to find a placement alone. Our tutors help you find a setting that stretches, shapes and inspires you.
Book a taster day to experience ordination training at St Augustine’s!
After reading this blog post, we hope we’ve inspired you to consider St Augustine’s for ordination training.
If you’re still exploring your options, you can book a free taster event to sample our campuses. You’ll sit on live lectures, meet our outstanding tutors and staff and chat with current students (and they may convince you it’s the best place!)
To book your taster day, click the link below.
