Curious about how the Apprentice Programme could help your church start or develop its children’s or youth ministry? Read these stories from current apprentices and explore how your church could employ someone in this transformational three-year training opportunity.
In April 2023, the Diocese of London’s Children and Youth team secured £1.5 million in funding through the Diocesan Investment Programme (DIP) to continue and expand the Apprentice Programme. This exciting initiative offers a paid, three-year opportunity to work in a local church while studying towards a Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) in Theology, Ministry and Mission.
It’s a deeply formational experience—not just for the apprentices, but for the churches and communities they’re part of. The programme blends practical ministry experience with accessible academic study and reflective practice, helping young adults grow in confidence, skill and faith.
But don’t just take our word for it—here are six stories from first-year apprentices who are already making a lasting difference in their churches.
From Playgroup to Belonging – Theresa Thomas, St John of Jerusalem
“One of the biggest highlights over the past six months has been seeing relationships grow in our church community, especially through children’s and families’ outreach. Our Little Tots Stay and Play group has been such a joy. Within the first four weeks, we saw incredible growth—welcoming families who had never stepped inside a church. Many of them now feel at home here, and that transformation has been so encouraging.”
Growing a Welcoming Culture – Charis Eldrid, St Mary’s Ealing
“Our youth club has doubled in size since last academic year! The young people are so kind and friendly to each other, and they’ve started inviting their friends too. It’s been lovely to get to know the congregation better, and my placement has really helped me understand how the church works. I also have great support from my supervisor, who I meet with weekly.”
Witnessing God at Work – Ash Wragg, Christ Church Spitalfields
“A real highlight has been running Youth Alpha with our Year 6s from the local primary school. After one session, a child who was filled with the Holy Spirit had a dream—and shared it with us. It was so encouraging to hear how God is moving in our young people. The dream also affirmed the work God is doing in me and my team.”
Creating Space for Community – Hanna Lebrato, St Peter’s Harrow
“My proudest achievement has been starting a half-termly event that brings youth and parents together. We host the Youth Hangout in the main hall with games like table tennis and football, plus puzzles and crafts. Meanwhile in the chapel, youth leaders and parents gather for Pray for Youth, a space to connect and pray for the young people in our community. It’s been really well received by the youth, the team, and parents alike!”
Leading with Confidence – Atlanta Henry, St Dunstan’s East Acton
“I organised a full youth takeover Sunday service, which was well received by the whole of St Dunstan’s. I’m also running a Sunday evening youth social that I now fully plan and lead myself. It’s been amazing to step into that responsibility and create something young people look forward to.”
Stepping into Community Needs – Anna Hill, St Jude’s & St Paul’s Mildmay
“I’ve really enjoyed the weekly rhythm of our children and families’ ministry. We welcome parents and carers with babies and toddlers into our Toddler’s Lounge, and we’ve seen more families attending our after-school Stay and Play. We’ve also launched a new worshipping community called Church at Five (in a Messy Church style). It’s still small, but families have really appreciated it. With our church school facing possible closure this summer, it’s felt so important to walk alongside both parents and teachers during this uncertain time.”
Find out more about The Apprentice Programme
Whether you’re someone exploring a call to work with children and young people, or a church leader looking to start or develop something for children or youth, The Apprentice Programme could be the right next step.
The programme offers:
- A paid, part-time role based in the church, employed by the diocese
- A CertHE in Theology, Ministry and Mission on completion
- In-person training days and dedicated support from the diocesan team
- The opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children, young people, and their families in a local church
We are currently recruiting both apprentices and host churches.
👉 Learn more and find out how to apply on the programme overview page
