Dear Friend,
The end of August is always one of the most anticipated times of the year as we sit on the edge of a new academic year. For the most part, we’re excited – to get back in the classroom; to meet our new students; to welcome back our returning students; and get into that good habit-forming rhythm of participating in the Christ-centered community which is at the heart of SBC. But it’s also an extremely busy time! Last minute applications and interviews; final class prep; and a whole host of admin that comes with this time of year as well. It’s fair to say, that summer is beginning to feel like a distant past and we’re full-steam ahead for the new academic year! (Watch our short reel on Instagram of what we’re looking forward to as term gets started).
We have a little more time to accept final applications – the official deadline is August 31st as that lets us get people registered in time for student orientation on September 8th, however, we can accept applications for all modules and courses a little beyond this – up until next Friday, September 4th. So if you’ve been wondering about studying all summer, this is your time to act. Similarly, if you know of someone who is still considering their options for the year ahead, please prompt them to get in contact with us asap so we can help them get started in time for this academic year. Contact Graham on graham.meiklejohn@uws.ac.uk
One of the exciting developments this coming year is the launch of our Lay Training Award (LTA) starting on October 20th. An unvalidated introductory course covering the basics of lay leadership / ministry aimed specifically at those who provide vital support the life of the local church. You may have been assisting in your church for many years and this is an opportunity for some structured learning and reflection; or it may be that you’re only just thinking about wanting to get involved a bit more – whatever your position, this is for you! The LTA is very much in its infancy and you’re the first people outside of the core staff team to know about it – so check out the webpage here to find out more and be one of the first to sign up! The vision is to have a group that will journey through the programme and be awarded with the LTA, so while you can take individual short courses, we hope that people will join for all six short courses over the next 2 years. The short courses will be delivered in the evenings and online, covering the foundational skills and learning for lay leadership within local churches – Pastoral Care, Preaching, Biblical Interpretation, Mission, Worship, and Leadership.
As if all that wasn’t enough, we’re also offering our Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care module starting in January 2027. It’s advance notice, but we’re already getting enquiries and applications for this module. For further information, contact Graham on graham.meiklejohn@uws.ac.uk
We’re excited by all the new academic year has to offer – new courses, new classes, new students. We’re looking forward to getting back into the familiar ways of teaching, learning, and worshipping together. And as we begin our MTh postgraduate course and the pre-degree LTA short courses, we’re pleased to offer more opportunities to join our learning community as we seek to prepare people to serve in the Kingdom of God.
Prayer Points:
Please continue to remember us in prayer.
+ Pray for the staff as they make final preparations for the new academic year
+ Give thanks new opportunities to join the learning community
+ Pray for our students – new and returning as they embark on another chapter of ministry
+ Give thanks for all the opportunities staff and students have had for ministry over the summer months
Thank you for your continued support and prayers as we continue to equip people to serve God’s Kingdom.
Ian Birch and the SBC Team
Donate to the College
The ongoing ministry of the College is not directly supported by BUS or Government HE funding. We rely on the generous gifts of individual and churches to help offer financially accessible and quality theological education to the next generation of Christian workers. You can give a one-off gift or set up a regular donation using this link: Donate via PayPal
Become a Governor
We’re inviting applicants to become a Governor on the College’s Board – you can find more information on our website. Specifically, we’re interested in those who have one or more of the following skills: running a small business, fundraising, Human Resources, marketing and media, and Higher Education. If you think this could be you, then please contact our Chair of Governors, Dr Joan McDowell (joanmcdowell92@gmail.com).
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