Rachel Walker, our new Apprenticeship Programme Coordinator, shares an update on our growing apprenticeship programme.
The latest cohort of Children’s and Youth work apprentices were recently commissioned at St Anne’s in Hoxton by Archdeacon Liz Adekunle. The first years are based in the Stepney and Edmonton areas, bringing the total to 12 apprentices now stationed across the Diocese in local parishes.
Over the next three years, each apprentice will gain experience in youth and children’s ministry on their parish placement, while developing confidence and skills through their academic training.
The apprenticeship scheme aims to empower those who want to work with young people and are already part of a parish community in London. Many of the apprentices are local worshipers who already have an understanding of their parish context.
One of our new apprentices is Savannah John-Leighton of St Anne’s Hoxton, who said:
“I want to be a role model who young people look up to and see is empowered by God. I didn’t get many opportunities in church when I was younger and my church youth group wasn’t very exciting. I hope I can bring fresh passion that will get young people involved, see the value of community in church life and a future with God in it.”
Savannah’s line manager, the Revd Christopher Woods said,
“Savannah is one of the most passionate and magnetic people I have ever met. She has undoubtable skill in motivating and encouraging young people to have confidence and fun. I’m excited to play a part in her time here and see the impact on our parish ministry.”
Archdeacon Liz urged the apprentices to stay connected – to avoid isolation and disconnection – so they would keep growing in their relationship with God and others whilst learning valuable experience on the job. Please pray for the new apprentices as they begin their first year of ministry and learning. Our second and third-year apprentices continue to make significant contributions to their parishes, please pray for them as they continue to grow and develop.
Find out more about the apprenticeship scheme
If you are interested in becoming a Children’s or Youth Work Apprentice, or your parish has a growing youth ministry and you would like to host a children’s and youth work apprentice, you can find out more online, or by emailing us.