About The Role
Our vision for Youth and Children’s ministry is “Partnering with parents to make young disciples.” We believe parents are the primary disciplers of their children, and our church programmes exist to support and encourage ministry at home.
You will oversee and develop all ministry to children aged 0–11, putting together teaching programmes for different age groups, recruiting and leading volunteer teams, supporting families, liaising with local schools (principally, St James Primary School) and helping children grow in love and faith through worship, prayer and teaching.
About Us
St James Muswell Hill is a lively, evangelical Anglican church in North London. We are multi-generational and ethnically diverse. There are three Sunday services, but children’s groups only take place at the 1030 service. This year we’ve had between 16-35 in the 5-11year group. Learn more: www.st-james.org.uk
Our Team
You would be joining a committed staff team in an enthusiastic and Christ-honouring culture. We work hard, care for each other, have fun, and strive to be straightforwardly loving and honest. You’ll have been recruited because of your gifts and character, so you won’t be micromanaged, although you’ll be clear about what is expected of you. You’ll be encouraged to rest well and take all your time off. As a team we rely on each other in doing our various ministries, and we have high standards. We dream up new ideas all the time, and if you are coming on board, we can’t wait to hear yours.
Safeguarding and Occupational Requirement
St James takes safeguarding very seriously in our recruitment and regular working practices. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check, including the barred list, due to regular contact with children. Leadership safeguarding training is mandatory. The Safeguarding Policy Statement of St James Church can be found here: https://www.st-james.org.uk/s/Parish-Safeguarding-Policy-2024.pdf
There is a Genuine Occupational Requirement for the postholder to be a committed Christian who wholeheartedly supports the beliefs and ethos of St James Muswell Hill.
What We Offer
• Supportive and collaborative team culture
• Opportunities for professional and theological development
• Flexibility for creativity and new ideas
• A ministry that values prayer, rest, and teamwork
The Diocese of London is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults through the use of the Safer Recruitment practice guidance. This role is subject to acceptable pre-appointment checks, including a satisfactory Enhanced DBS Check.
Key Responsibilities
• Oversee and manage all children’s ministry (ages 0–11)
• Plan, practice and train others to deliver engaging and adaptable Bible-based sessions (currently using Mustard Seeds)
• Lead and develop volunteer teams, providing pastoral care and training
• Help parents to begin and maintain family discipleship
• Coordinate the Sunday groups (0–2s, Promiseland Junior (3-4s), and Promiseland for ages 5–11).
• Co-ordinate the Inclusion team, for children requiring additional support
• Plan and lead key events, including the Light Party around Halloween, and the Easter and Summer Holiday Clubs (around four days each)
• Liaise with key partner organisations (principally Pathway, for hosting The Christmas Experience – an immersive telling of the Christmas story for primary schools, hosted at St James)
• Oversee the Under-5s ministry (including re-starting a toddler group)
• Maintain and develop strong links with the church primary school through coordination of assembly rota, and regular school services for Harvest, Christmas, Easter and end of School Year.
• Under the clergy, take a leadership role in planning and delivering our monthly All-Age Worship Services, and children’s services e.g. nativity service
• Communicate regularly with parents, carers, and volunteers
• Manage rotas, budgets, and safeguarding practices
• Work closely with the Youth Minister for smooth transitions and joint ministry (e.g. hosting visits from other local primary schools)
Knowledge & Competence
• Operate within the doctrinal position of St James Muswell Hill (www.st-james.org.uk/beliefs)
• Provide theological and pastoral leadership for children’s work
• Pray regularly for children, families, and volunteers
• Support and disciple leaders by example and teaching
• Growing awareness of contemporary parental challenges
• Ensure full compliance with safeguarding policies and Safer Recruitment, working closely with the Vicar and the volunteer Parish Safeguarding Officer.
• Be a visible and approachable presence within church life
Essential Skills & Experience
• Experience in children’s, youth, or family ministry
• Proven ability to teach and engage children in group and one-to-one settings
• Leadership experience in holiday clubs, camps, or similar
• Excellent organisational skills and self-motivation
• Confidence with engaging parents and carers individually and in groups
• Confidence with digital and social media communication
• Proven ability to build, train and inspire volunteer teams
• A Team player who contributes to and supports other ministries
Desirable Skills & Experience
• Awareness of good child teaching practices, including SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities)
• Experience of children’s ministry in city churches
• Worship leading or musical ability
• Multimedia design or creative communication
Equal Opportunities
The Diocese of London is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive workforce which represents our context and wider community. We are aware that those of Global Majority Heritage/United Kingdom Minority Ethnic (GMH/UKME) and disabled people are currently under-represented among our clergy and workforce, and we particularly encourage applications from those with the relevant skills and experience that will increase this representation.