Future Youth

An exciting NEW opportunity starting this September to join the Future Youth scheme offering a year's experience of Youth Ministry in the Diocese of St Edmundbury and Ipswich.

Who is the Future Youth Scheme for?

The scheme is for anyone aged 18-30 interested in working with children, young people and families in the church and community. You would need to show an existing strong Christian faith, an awareness of God's call on your life within the Anglican Church, and a desire to learn more about mission and ministry with young people through experience, study and reflective practice.

Where will I be based?

The scheme is based primarily in Haverhill, Suffolk in the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, but with opportunities to travel to other parts of the diocese to learn more about different ways of working with young people. Accommodation is provided in Haverhill.

Haverhill is a market town which experienced significant population growth in the post-war period, and is again growing with new developments. It has good public transport links to Cambridge.

What will I be doing?

Ministry and Mission:
There are lots of opportunities for joining in with our established team of ministers working with young people at St Mary's Church and as part of the active network of Churches Together. We have strong links with the seven primary schools and two secondary schools in the town and part of the role will involve developing our ministry in these places. This year there is also the unique opportunity to engage with young people on issues of violence and youth culture, with the arrival of the Knife Angel in Haverhill in September.

Study:
As part of the scheme, regular study and accreditation is provided through the nationally-run Aurora Certificate in Youth Ministry.

Reflective Practice:
Regular supervision is provided from a qualified and experienced youth ministry practitioner to help participants reflect on their experience. Supervision is also provided by the parish in helping to reflect on your spiritual journey, relationships within the ministry team and personal development.

What do I need to provide?

All costs of the scheme are provided for, including accommodation, training, transport and a grant for daily living paid monthly. Travel around Haverhill is possible on foot or bicycle and transport to other sites will be provided. The application process will require references, a confidential declaration of suitability for work and a satisfactory DBS check.

How do I apply?

Future Youth is a national scheme being offered by the Church of England, being delivered for the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich here in Haverhill. For more information on the national scheme and for testimony from previous participants, take a look at their website.