Lay Ministry and Pastoral tutors – alongside current students – share why they chose Reader Training, what theology study at St Augustine’s has given them, and how it has grown their confidence and calling.
About the course
As part of your Lay Ministry training, you’ll complete the Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) Theology, Ministry and Mission.
Validated by Durham University, this course lets you dive into the exciting world of theological study with a focus on Reader training.
The programme will give you opportunities to establish your skills in theological reflection as you discover and develop your own faith-based perspective on all aspects of daily life.
As a Licensed Lay Ministry student, you will attend four study days per academic year. Depending on the year of study, you will also take part in a placement – joining a church that differs from your own worship style.
During these periods, you will study modules specific to your training pathway, developing your theoretical knowledge and your skills in Christian ministry and worship.
“The option to learn online was incredibly valuable. It opened up Reader training to those living further afield and to those balancing study with full-time work or other commitments, making the course more accessible and inclusive.
“I really valued my time studying at St Augustine’s. The staff were consistently supportive and encouraging. I felt the care and commitment reflected the Church’s wider calling to nurture and equip its students for ministry.
“I was also fortunate to study alongside a wonderful group of classmates, whose generosity of spirit, faith, and willingness to learn from one another greatly enriched our studies.”
Victoria
Lay Reader at St Augustine’s College of Theology
Reader student Claire Peyton-Jones shares what she has valued most about studying at St Augustine’s College of Theology.
How and where will I study?
This course is part-time for two years. You can attend classes both in person and online, so you can choose what works best for you.
Choose from one of these three options:
- Weekly Monday evening classes at our London Bridge campus in the borough of Southwark (6:30 pm to 9:00 pm)
- Fortnightly teaching days at our West Malling campus in Kent (10:30 am to 4:00 pm)
- Weekly evening classes online via Zoom every Wednesday (6:30 pm to 9:00 pm).
We understand that life can sometimes get in the way of study. If you can’t attend your usual class, you can arrange to attend at an alternative teaching centre.
“My placement as a Lay Reader has not only enhanced my learning, it’s also been spiritually uplifting.
I was amazed at how much I managed to cram into my six-week placement, from attending leadership meetings, talking with the pastoral team and leading intercessions, to hearing some very moving testaments from the congregation.
Having attended the same church for the past 17 years, it was a bit of a shock to the system to be worshiping in such a different style. But my placement experience has made me think very differently about what makes a church a vibrant and engaging place to worship God.”
Rona
Lay Reader at St Augustine’s College of Theology
Required learning sessions for Lay Readers
While you can attend classes online, all Lay Ministry students must attend the following sessions in person:
First year
In the first year, you will take part in four study days focused on Lay Ministry, introducing topics such as Theological Reflection and Teamwork & Collaboration. They will take place on:
- Saturday 10th October 2026 – London Bridge campus
- Saturday 17th November 2026 – West Malling campus
- Saturday 30th January 2027 – London Bridge campus
- Saturday 13th March 2027 – West Malling campus
Second year
There are also 4 study days in your second year (dates tbc)
“For anyone called by God to preach the good news – I would thoroughly recommend Lay Reader training at St Augustine’s. You meet and learn from the most amazing people. I’m in my second year of training and I am sure that I’m making friendships that will last a lifetime.”
Student at St Augustine’s College of Theology
Frequently asked questions
Next steps
Take the next step on your journey into studying theology.
Need help or have a question? Contact our admissions team for further assistance.
