King’s Church Durham has considerable experience of providing high quality church-based theological teaching. Kings is based the historic University city of Durham famous for its long tradition of theological learning. The School of Theology draws on highly qualified teaching staff for this excellent programme of face to face theological education and training. The aim of the programme is to equip people who through cost or their time availability do not have access to good quality theological education. The School of Theology is suitable for those starting out in theological study, interns, pastoral assistants, volunteers, those considering leadership at any level in the church or others who are simply interested in deepening their own grasp of the Bible, theology and the mission and ministry of the church.

Teaching

The theological teaching input covers biblical studies, historical theology and mission and pastoral studies. The 120 hours of teaching time consists of twenty days spread over 11 months (September 2012—July 2013) . The teaching is divided into two strands, so that those who can only commit ten days per year can take the programme over two years. Teaching is delivered in a combination of study blocks and monthly teaching days—see overleaf for the full timetable of dates.

Teaching is delivered at undergraduate level and students will need to be comfortable with study at this level in order to benefit fully from the programme. There will be some preparatory reading and the opportunity for students to write formal assignments for assessment to enable them to consolidate and reflect on their learning if they wish. Although the programme is not currently accredited, students who complete assignments will be able to assemble a portfolio of evidence of learning which may be accepted as part of the entry requirements for further theological study.

Syllabus

Strand 1

New Testament (30 hrs) taught by Dr Mark Bonnington, this course provides an overview of NT theology covering the Gospels, Paul’s letters, the general letters and the Apocalypse.

Mission Studies (15 hrs): includes theological, historical and practical teaching on engaging with the mission of the church. Charlie Shepherd (MA) leads this module.

Pastoral Studies (15 hrs): led by Ruth Perrin (MATM) covers a variety of theological and practical issues including Leadership development, Christian discipleship, pastoral care, ethics and spirituality.

Strand 2

Old Testament and Hermeneutics (30 hrs): includes an introduction to the OT, an introduction to hermeneutics, detailed study of Genesis 1-10, a prophetic book and a wisdom book. The teaching team is led by John Parker, an American Anglican minister who is writing a Durham PhD on the book of Numbers.

Historical Theology: includes Church History and major questions of Doctrine down the centuries. It is primarily taught by Melody Briggs (MA).

Following completion of the School of Theology students can participate in the Ministry Training Programme, an 11 month programme of weekly theological seminars aimed at extending student’s theological learning and reflection skills for ministry and preparing them for postgraduate study in theology.

Applications

The cost for the programme is £630 per individual (£315 per strand), which covers all course costs and includes light refreshments each teaching day. Teaching takes place at our Church base in central Durham (20 mins walk from Durham railway and bus stations) and runs from 9.15 to 4.45pm each teaching day.

Overnight accommodation can be arranged in Durham City for a small charge. We expect applicants for the programme to be supported with a reference from their church.

You can apply online or contact us for a paper form. If you are a church leader who would like to discuss sending students please contact Ruth Perrin.

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 30 August 2012.