A £1.2m gift from Trinity Church NYC secures the Diocese of London’s Children & Youth Apprentice Programme through 2026–27, supporting diverse future ministry leaders and enabling parishes to offer high‑quality children’s and youth ministry training across London.
The Diocese of London’s flagship programme for developing children’s and youth ministry leaders will continue through 2026 and 2027 thanks to a £1.2 million gift from Trinity Church, a parish in the City of New York.
The Apprentice Programme creates accessible routes into ministry for people who may not have the opportunity to pursue traditional training pathways. Each cohort includes eight apprentices who spend three years working within parish settings across London, supported by the Diocese’s Children & Youth team and receiving theological and practical training through Ridley Hall, Cambridge.
Now in its eleventh year, the programme collectively reaches more than 1,150 children and young people every week across the Diocese. Its long-term impact is well established: 74% of graduates continue in church ministry, and 49% of Apprentices come from Global Majority heritages, enabling parishes to nurture leaders who reflect and understand the communities they serve. Previous cohorts have been funded by national Church of England grants and the Bishop of London’s Mission Fund.
The Revd Phil Jackson, Rector of Trinity Church Wall Street, said:
At Trinity Church, we believe that investing in young people is the best way to ensure a bright future for them, for our communities, and for the Church,” said the Rev. Phillip A. Jackson, Rector of Trinity Church NYC. “We are delighted to provide support to the Diocese of London to develop the next generation of youth ministry leaders in this creative program. I wish all those who participate much success as they continue to grow in faith and service.
The Rt Revd & Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London, said:
This partnership strengthens our churches by nurturing leaders who reflect the diversity and needs of communities across the Diocese of London. We are deeply grateful for Trinity’s commitment to ensuring that children and young people are supported by leaders who understand, represent, and champion their needs.
Trinity’s gift will enable the Diocese of London to continue prioritising Growing Younger and build Confident Disciples, ensuring that parishes without the resources to employ children’s or youth workers can still offer high-quality ministry and leadership.
To find out more about the programme, including how your parish can host an Apprentice, please visit the Apprentices page on the Diocese of London website.