Chelmsford / East Midlands / London / South West
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
ROMANS 8:28
St Mellitus College is a place of hope and commitment to the gospel. We long to see people come alive with a passion for theology, to be filled with a sense of the mission of God, and to be confident in the Good News of Jesus Christ. We pioneer creative approaches to training that enable Christians to explore their faith deeply whilst remaining rooted in the Church.
Every person we send out we want to be given a heart and a vision for the gospel and formed into Christlikeness. What excites me in my role as Dean is that we get to fan into flame the work that God is doing in the lives of our students. As you study and train at St Mellitus College, the most important question we’ll ask is ‘Are you becoming more like Jesus?’ That is what matters.
We draw together a diverse group of people from so many different walks of life who desire to listen to the Spirit and deepen their understanding of God, His word and His world. It is a privilege to journey with every student who entrusts their time to us, as we equip you to make a difference for the cause of Christ. Our passion is to walk alongside every student, helping you develop a theological imagination that shapes the way the world is viewed.
All staff and students are rooted in prayer and the values of God’s Kingdom, we hold our convictions generously and are committed to the church’s unity. Those who study at St Mellitus College may serve in a range of contexts; from different backgrounds, cultures and traditions, but all are committed to love and serve Christ. This is a place of prayer and worship where you will cultivate friendships and networks which will sustain and resource you.
Our model of training combines theology with practice, enabling you to apply your learning directly to your workplaces, churches and communities. We will equip you to grow in your relationship with God, deepen your understanding of faith, and develop your ability to communicate that faith to others. We train people who are passionate about the gospel, called to serve Jesus Christ, and are energised by the life of the Spirit and the unity of the church.
We would love to hear from you and share the journey of training, formation and leadership that God is calling you on.
We long to see people come alive with a passion for theology , to be filled with a sense of the mission of God, and to be confident in the Good News of Jesus Christ.
St Mellitus College is one national college, based in four different centres, spread across the UK.
In God’s generous economy, these centres not only serve the regions they are located in but also feed local wisdom and learning back into the whole College. Every student and staff member at St Mellitus College benefits hugely from being part of a growing and diverse community rooted in a number of different contexts across the country.
EAST MIDLANDS
SOUTH WEST
CHELMSFORD
Chelmsford Cathedral, CM1 1TY
St Mellitus College, Chelmsford offers part-time ordination and Licensed Lay Ministry training, as well as part-time undergraduate programmes.
When - Thursdays (6:30pm - 9:15pm)
Contact - chelmsford@stmellitus.ac.uk
EAST MIDLANDS
Trinity Church, Nottingham, NG1 3HX St Martin’s House, Leicester, LE1 5PZ
St Mellitus College, East Midlands, offers full-time context-based ordination training and part-time postgraduate programmes on Tuesdays, and part-time hybrid delivery ordination training on Mondays. Both offer undergraduate programmes.
When - (Leicester) Mondays (6:30pm - 9:15pm) (Nottingham) Tuesdays (9:30am-4:30pm)
Contact - eastmidlands@stmellitus.ac.uk
LONDON
HTB Courtfield Gardens, London, SW5 0LX
St Mellitus College, London, offers full-time context based ordination training and postgraduate programmes on Mondays, and part-time ordination training, Licensed Lay Ministry and introductory study on Tuesdays. Both offer undergraduate programmes.
When - Mondays (9.30am – 4.30pm) Tuesdays (6.15pm – 9pm)
Contact - london@stmellitus.ac.uk
SOUTH WEST
St Matthias Church, Plymouth, PL4 8HF
St Mellitus College, South West offers full-time context-based ordination training, as well as full and part-time undergraduate programmes.
When - Tuesdays (9.30am – 4.30pm)
Contact - southwest@stmellitus.ac.uk
Study theology to deepen your own love of and faith in God. An unexamined faith is often an untrusting one. Some people think that doing theology is bad for your faith, but that suggests that when you face a tough situation, or are asked a hard question, your faith will die.
Here at St Mellitus College, we believe that God gets bigger, more beautiful and more trustworthy as you gaze more and more deeply. Paul says this in Romans 8.31 ‘If God is for us, who is against us?’ If death can’t separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus, the study of theology certainly can’t.
Study theology for the sake of your church. It is not everyone’s calling to do formal academic study of theology, but it is the calling of every Christian disciple to do all they can to deepen their faith. Those of us who are called to this kind of study are one of the varieties of the Spirit’s gift to the church.
As you study, always think, how can this help my Christian friends? What are the questions and situations they are wrestling with? Study to be a resource for your church.
Study for the sake of those who don’t know God. Do you believe that Jesus Christ is good news for the whole world? If so, how is the whole world going to find that out. There are a lot of strange ideas about God around in our culture, and a lot of damaging ideas about what life is for. We need to equip ourselves to be confident in the good news we have to share.
Finally, study theology to be a gift to this community of joyful study here at St Mellitus College. Help the community you study with, staff and students alike, to grow in the knowledge and love of God, and in Christ-like lives in the power of the Holy Spirit.
We believe that God gets bigger , more beautiful and more trustworthy as you gaze more and more deeply.
Sarah is an Independent Student on the Undergraduate BA (Hons) programme, studying at St Mellitus College, South West
I’m a designer, house church leader and undergraduate student living in Falmouth, Cornwall.
I’d been leading in my house church for a while when people started coming to me with questions that I didn’t really have the answers for, which gave me a desire to learn more myself - they’ve enjoyed a lot of second-hand theology wisdom so far! I can now see how much of a difference studying theology alongside other students and lecturers who are based in a local church makes - discussions don’t stay abstract for long as we’re always reflecting on how the theology we’re learning applies to our church contexts. Additionally, as I was part of a non-denominational new church, where we seemed to be figuring everything out on the fly, I thought that there was a lot that I could learn from the rich tradition and spiritual disciplines of the Anglican Church.
Of all the Christian spaces I’ve been in, St Mellitus College is probably the place where I’ve felt like I can most be myself. When I’m leading my church there’s a pressure to have all the answers and a position on every issue, and in other Christian groups I’ve felt like I need to hold certain beliefs or worship in a specific way. But at college there’s a real openness to questions, doubts, and different traditions. In the College community I’ve become friends with people whose faith looks really different to mine and they’ve challenged my assumptions and taught me so much.
Coming from a fairly anti-intellectual church background I was bracing myself for a major faith challenge, half expecting everything to unravel as soon as I opened the first textbook!
And, yes, there have been moments of questioning my own convictions and realising that some issues are far more complex than I had first thought. But I’d say that my faith has been strengthened through my studies - although I’m now less certain about many things, I’m far more certain about the most central things. Being at the College has also given me a lot more hope for the future of the Church. Being all the way down in Cornwall you can feel a bit disconnected from the UK church, so it’s inspiring to be part of national college and hear/see what God is doing in communities all over the country.
WHAT TIPS OR ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A PROSPECTIVE STUDENT THINKING OF STUDYING HERE?
For me it’s made all the difference to study theology in a worshipping community. Starting the day singing and praying together is a great reminder that we’re all worshipping the same God. And that really helps when you’re presented with tough content in a lecture, as you can trust that the lecturer loves God and the Church, and is challenging you to build your faith. The same goes for people on the course who you totally disagree with, having a moment of unity at the start and end of the day helps you see them as brothers and sisters. It sometimes feels like we’re constantly praying at college, even at the start and end of lectures, but I love how that puts the focus on God and builds an expectation that He will speak to us through what we learn.
WHAT HAVE YOU ENJOYED THE MOST ABOUT STUDYING AT ST MELLITUS COLLEGE?
Lunch! I know that doesn’t sound very studious, but it’s the moments of catching up on what’s going on in everyone’s lives and churches, continuing discussion about the last lecture and grilling guest speakers over sandwiches and crisps that I really treasure.
IN THREE WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TIME AT ST MELLITUS COLLEGE?
Stretching, empowering, fun (& carb-heavy!)
To know that the person who is teaching you cares about Jesus, cares about the Church, cares about mission , has been really anchoring.
One
of the main things I’ll take away from St Mellitus College is you can’t work God out – the more you learn about him the bigger he gets , and the more amazing he gets and the greater he gets.
Our different routes into study are:
Ordination Training
Independent Study
Peter Stream
Caleb Stream
Licensed Lay Ministry
At the heart of every pathway we offer is our St Mellitus College ethos — theological study embedded in a local church or ministry context. Whatever route you follow, your training will reflect creatively on this: studying in the classroom while serving in your community.
St Mellitus College specialises in training women and men for ordination in the Church of England. To train for ordination, any prospective student must have a recommendation for training from a Church of England Bishop. Both full-time and part-time programmes are available, combining academic excellence and practical experience, with a strong focus on the personal formation of each candidate for ordained ministry. The College has a first-rate academic teaching staff, alongside a wide range of visiting professors and associate lecturers. We draw on a pool of experienced church practitioners who help develop each ordinand’s capacity for effective church leadership.
St Mellitus College has a reputation for teaching excellence at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, providing outstanding academic provision and ensuring students are significantly challenged to achieve their full potential. All our ordinands are rooted in local churches or mission contexts whilst undertaking their theological study. On the full-time route, ordinands spend half their week in a church context, ministering under a training supervisor, while our part-time ordinands learn to integrate their theological studies into their working life or local church context.
Students engage in academic study, leadership development and theological reflection throughout each term, in addition to having one or two days per week for personal study. They will also attend five residential weekends for teaching, one retreat weekend through the year, and one annual residential week. Ordinands from our various centres across the country meet at the residentials to worship and learn together. This formative experience allows for spiritual growth, and friendships to form across the breadth of traditions in the Church of England and is part of how we live out the value of ‘Generous Orthodoxy’.
Each ordinand is also part of a Formation Group, consisting of a small group of ordinands who journey together through training, with their Tutor acting as the primary point of contact for academic and pastoral support and formation. We also have an excellent chaplaincy team in college and access to a counselling service which, along with the staff team, are dedicated to prayerfully and professionally supporting our students.
St Mellitus College has a reputation for teaching excellence at both undergraduate & postgraduate level, providing outstanding academic provision and ensuring students are significantly challenged to achieve their full potential.
I’m not sure I would’ve gone for ordination training if St Mellitus College, or something like it, wasn’t on offer.
We believe that studying theology is important for all Christians, to explore and live out our faith and calling. Theology is not just for those involved in formal church leadership, but for anyone wanting to grow as disciples and present a coherent witness in a changing world.
Whatever your context, as an independent student at St Mellitus College you will be enabled to think theologically about what you do, and how you do it. You will be equipped in your ministry and mission in your workplace, your church, at home, or wherever you may be.
Students engage in academic study and theological reflection throughout each term, in addition to having one or two days per week for personal study.
Independent Undergraduate students also attend one or two non-residential teaching weeks each academic year (dependent on whether undertaking fullor part-time study). At teaching weeks, independent students from our various centres across the country meet in our London Centre to worship and learn together. This formative experience allows for wider learning and friendships to form across the breadth of traditions held by our student body and is part of how we live out the value of ‘Generous Orthodoxy’.
Independent study at St Mellitus College is designed to fit around your context, to help you explore what it might look like to study and live out a practical theology, immersed in your locality.
Learning to study God, and having conversations with different theologians, has massively helped me to further my walk with God in loving him with my mind.
Jesus saw Peter’s gifts and potential for ministry, even though others couldn’t see it at first (Acts 4).
The Peter Stream offers a distinctive experience of discernment, complementing the Church of England processes by offering candidates a diverse community of peers to journey with, alongside theological and formational teaching within the context of a worshipping community at St Mellitus College.
This year-long programme is designed to identify and encourage the gifts and calling of people and prepare them for the national discernment process.
The Peter Stream seeks to redress underrepresentation in ordained leadership in the Church of Englandethnic, social, and educational. It is open to candidates who have faced exclusion for these reasons and more.
The focus is on supporting candidates on their vocational journey, helping them in the discernment process while encouraging their desire to grow in faith in Jesus and the gifts He has given.
The Peter Stream helped me to understand what calling is, and what vocation meant.
The Caleb Stream is a discernment and training pathway towards Church of England ordination for mature lay leaders with leadership experience who have the support of their diocese, enabling them to train for the diaconate within one year.
Caleb was strong and vigorous in exercising his ministry well into his mature years (Joshua 14). This stream aims to mobilise a generation rich in Christian leadership and life experience to serve in parishes across the UK.
Across the one year programme each student will receive teaching and formation, drawing on the strengths and gifts they bring and investing in the ministry God is calling them to step into. The cohort will journey together through a series of in-person and online engagement, as well as the national discernment processes.
All my life has been a calling to ministry
LLMs are trained for lay leadership within their local churches and are authorised by the Church to teach, preach, lead worship and give pastoral care. They are leaders in mission and ministry in their parishes and personal contexts.
We deliver Licensed Lay Ministry (LLM) training in partnership with the Dioceses of London and Chelmsford. To join the LLM programme at St Mellitus College, students first go through a period of
discernment and selection in their local churches and diocese and are then recommended for training.
If selected, training usually lasts three years and is designed to develop theological understanding and practical ministerial skills. In London, LLMs will study for a Diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission. In Chelmsford, LLMs will study for a Certificate in Christian Ministry and Mission.
You leave feeling refilled and rejuvenated
Jake was ordained in 2022 having trained at St Mellitus College, East Midlands, studying for the postgraduate MA degree.
My name is Jake and I think I am a relatively normal guy. I am married to the wonderful Sarah and have a little girl called Lillia who is about to turn two - she keeps me on my toes! I enjoy sports, particularly cricket and football both playing and watching. I love being out in the garden, having a beer with my friends and if the weather is good having a BBQ!
Being at St Mellitus College is wonderfully surreal - certainly in Christian circles - so many different traditions, preferences, people and cultures all coming together with love and respect for one another. I know from previous experience that not everywhere is like this but the culture is one of love, acceptance and learning. The people, the community, there is just such a sense of joy in this place. Whether it’s in the classroom debating some pretty intense things, or over lunch just having a chat, the whole thing from start to finish has just been full of so much fun and love and laughter. That community spirit, that togetherness whilst learning is absolutely a highlight for me.
College has made a huge difference in all aspects of my life, certainly in the way that I approach God, the variety of worship, but in particular the level of study I have done has impacted the way that I carry out my faith. It has challenged so many things about how I live, how I want to do church work,how passionate I have now become about the Church. I think the biggest thing would be just an overall, well-rounded benefit to every aspect of my walk with God.
Ultimately a respect for so many different parts of the Anglican world, and on top of that a love for anyone and everyone. Trying to meet everyone where they are at. There are people at St Mellitus College from so many different backgrounds, they’ve experienced so many different things, and they have so much to offer. I’m walking away knowing that God is doing an amazing thing through all of us and that through hope in Jesus Christ, St Mellitus College is preparing people to do an incredible work for the Church of England.
WHAT IMPACT DO YOU THINK ST MELLITUS COLLEGE WILL HAVE ON YOUR LIFE IN THE FUTURE?
A huge impact. I wouldn’t in my opinion have gone for ordination in the Church of England without the support and teaching and love that St Mellitus College has shown. I’ll always be able to look back and think St Mellitus College has prepared me for this, they have given me the platform to work from, the foundations to step up to.
HOW HAVE YOU BEEN SUPPORTED THROUGH YOUR TIME HERE?
St Mellitus College offers loads of support, there are always several chaplains on hand that are willing to talk and pray. I have never known an educational body where the faculty are so approachable, where they are so responsive, and if I need anything I know that I can turn to any staff member and get that help.
IN THREE WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TIME AT ST MELLITUS COLLEGE?
Really ruddy brilliant!
My faith has been allowed to flourish, my knowledge tested, and my formation nourished.
We offer a range of programmes to suit anyone interested in theological study. Our first-rate teaching staff will stretch you academically and deepen your faith.
Beginning Theology
Certificate of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission*
Diploma of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission*
Graduate Diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission*
BA (Hons) in Theology, Ministry and Mission*
MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission*
PhD Partnership with Durham University
*These undergraduate and postgraduate academic awards offered by St Mellitus College are validated by Durham University.
INTRODUCTORY PROGRAMME
Certified by St Mellitus College
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
Beginning Theology is an introductory programme for anyone who would love to study theology but may not have the necessary qualifications. It’s open to anyone wishing to go deeper in knowing more about God’s truth in a comfortable, friendly environment.
We cover all the basic principles so that you leave the programme with a good understanding of theology and equipped to speak into your context.
CENTRES
London
PROGRAMME DURATION
This is a modular course enabling termly participation. Each term we offer a module, with the chance to build towards a St Mellitus College award.
Beginning Theology is an access course designed to provide a foundation for further study. For that reason there are no formal entry requirements.
It has allowed me to understand the Bible, my context and how God works in us and through us using our gifts, experiences and obedience.
Our standard option for undergraduate programmes at Certificate, Diploma and BA level offers a broad range of modules providing a strong theological foundation as well as reflection on core topics related to ministry and mission.
For independent undergraduate students we also offer two options within the Theology, Ministry and Mission programme that provide a focus on ministry and mission to younger generations as we seek to equip the church for this vital task:
This option is for those with an interest in reflecting on ministry and mission to children, young people and young adults. Modules are offered at one of the teaching weeks in each level of study (certificate, diploma and BA) geared toward this, with topics including Creating New Christian Communities and Introduction to Theology and Human Development in Children and Adolescents.
The Emerging Generations focus can be undertaken part-time or full-time, and at certificate, diploma or BA level.
Our Youth Ministry focus is for those with a particular heart or developing sense of call to work with young people in a variety of contexts. This focus offers the same optional modules as the Emerging Generations focus but also includes an additional core youth ministry specific module in each academic year.
Students choosing a focus in Youth Ministry should be working or volunteering in a context involving a minimum number of contact hours with young people and regular supervision. Further information on this aspect of the programme can be found via our website www.stmellitus.ac.uk/youth-ministry
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME
Validated by Durham University
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
The Certificate lays the building blocks of Christian theology by introducing foundational subjects such as Christian Tradition, Evangelism, Church History, Biblical Studies, Spirituality & Discipleship, and Christian Worship. It also engages students in learning how to reflect theologically on practical aspects of mission and ministry.
For independent students choosing a focus on ministry to Emerging Generations, alternative modules that focus on this area will be undertaken. (Note, the option to select a focus in Youth Ministry is not currently offered as a Certificate).
All centres offer the Certificate for independent students.
PROGRAMME DURATION
Full-time (1 year)
Part-time (2 years)
We recommend a minimum of one-two additional day(s) of private study per week.
Applicants will normally have one A Level (grade C / grade 4 or above) or equivalent for direct entry on to the Certificate.
I feel at home in St Mellitus College’s generous orthodoxy which is both taught and practiced with the utmost integrity.
Validated by Durham University
The Diploma builds on Certificate level study, offering the opportunity to expand and deepen thinking in subjects such as: Doctrine, Ethics, Biblical Studies, Practical Theology, Ecclesiology, and Leadership.
For independent students choosing a focus on Youth Ministry or Emerging Generations, alternative modules that focus on these areas will be undertaken.
All centres offer the Diploma.
Full-time Independent Students (2 years)
Part-time Independent Students (4 years)
Ordinands may undertake the Diploma over two or three years dependent on the training pathway agreed by their diocese.
We recommend a minimum of one-two additional day(s) of private study per week.
Applicants will normally have two A Levels (grade C / grade 4 or above) or equivalent for direct entry on to the Diploma.
It is so exciting to have the opportunity to engage theologically with other Christians in a way that is intellectually rigorous and personally challenging.
Validated by Durham University
The Degree programme gives students a strong and broad foundation in their theological understanding and develops skills for thoughtful application to practical ministry. Building on Certificate and Diploma level study, students continue their study in Mission and Apologetics, Advanced Biblical Studies, Advanced Topics in Doctrine, and Issues in Contemporary Culture. All Degree students also undertake a longer piece of written independent research in theology.
Independent students choosing a focus in Youth Ministry or Emerging Generations will undertake specific modules related to these areas that build on those covered up to Diploma level.
East Midlands Tuesday, London Monday (full-time only) & South West Centres. Please note that the Youth Ministry focus is only available in our London Monday centre.
Full-time (3 years)
Part-time (6 years)
We recommend a minimum of one-two additional day(s) of private study per week.
Applicants will normally have three A Levels (grade C / grade 4 or above) or equivalent for direct entry on to the BA.
We learn a lot about God, we wrestle with tough questions, but it always comes back to worship.
Validated by Durham University
The Graduate Diploma programme offers students the opportunity to undertake the final year of the BA Hons programme, taking modules such as: Mission and Apologetics, Advanced Biblical Studies, Advanced Topics in Doctrine, and Issues in Contemporary Culture, and a longer piece of written independent research in theology.
The Graduate Diploma is offered at the East Midlands (Tuesday), London and South West centres.
Full-time (1 year)
Part-time (2 years)
Applicants must normally have a 2:1 Honours
Degree in a humanities based subject or a Diploma (HE) in Theology with a substantial proportion of their graded credit at Merit/2:1 level.
My understanding of living the Christian life has been radically informed by my time here.
Validated by Durham University
When it comes to theology, the deepest rewards come from serious engagement with the Bible and key Christian figures and texts. This programme is ideal for Theology or Religious Studies graduates looking to advance in higher research or practising church leaders seeking deeper engagement with core Christian texts and themes.
At the London centre, students can choose one of three foci for their MA study: Christian Theology; Mission in Contemporary Culture; or Biblical Studies. At the East Midlands centre, students engage with modules that cover a range of topics, including Biblical Studies, Systematic Theology, and Christian Ethics. All MA students complete a dissertation, allowing students to focus their
independent research in an area of specific academic interest.
East Midlands Tuesday & London Monday centres.
Full-time (1 year) - Please note that this is only possible for those undertaking modules that allow for a specialism in Mission in Contemporary Culture. This is only offered at the London centre. Part-time (2 years)
Submission of a degree-level academic paper no less than 2,000 words forms part of the application process. A 2.1 degree in theology is normally required for direct entry to any MA.
The teaching you receive comes from lecturers who don’t just equip you on an academic level but also inspire you to go deeper in your faith.
Validated by Durham University
The PhD partnership with Durham University allows successful applicants to undertake the Durham PhD programme while based at St Mellitus College. Students will be co-supervised by a member of Durham’s Department of Theology and Religion and a member of St Mellitus College staff. In the first instance, prospective students can either approach a member of the St Mellitus College academic staff team directly to enquire about PhD supervision or email research@stmellitus.ac.uk with details of their proposed area of research.
All centres offer the PhD.
Please note that PhD students on this route become students of Durham University and can only enter the programme by applying to and being accepted by Durham University. However, initial discussion should take place with St Mellitus College prior to contacting the University.
More information can be found at stmellitus.ac.uk/durham-partnership
The diversity among the students was another bonus. I heard many differing views from people I would otherwise not have had an opportunity to meet.
The quality of teaching has been first class, and is always accompanied by the winning mixture of academic rigour, deep faith, humour, and grace.
At St Mellitus College you will be stretched by the theology you study and have the opportunity to reflect on the sort of person that you are becoming, the qualities of your character, and the way you engage in relationships with others as a disciple of Christ. We call this formation. At its most fundamental level, ‘formation’ is the shaping of the whole person after the likeness of Christ.
To facilitate this, we focus on aspects of development that include personality, character, relationships, leadership, collaboration and community. All students study theology alongside being engaged in some form of Christian mission and ministry, either in the workplace or in the context of the church and world. This model of training, with theology and practice intertwined, facilitates the formation of strong theological reflectors and reflective practitioners.
As it involves the whole of our beings, the process of formation in the Spirit can be exhilarating, stretching and liberating as we grow in self-understanding and become more aware of the impact we have on others.
The experience is an exciting time of discovery. Formation can be challenging and painful, as we encounter aspects of ourselves which are unexpected or surprising.
This is often the most important part of the formational journey, and the more honest we are, and able to engage with the demands of the process, the more profound the possibility of growth and change.
Formation groups are offered to Ordinand, Licensed Lay Ministry, Undergraduate and Postgraduate students and play a vital role in the life of the College. They provide a regular opportunity for prayer, mutual support, reflection and discussion. A Formation Group Tutor acts as the student’s primary point of academic and pastoral support during their time in the College.
Christian formation is ultimately dependent on the transforming work of the Spirit.
In my time at St Mellitus College, my Formation Group has been a source of mutual strength and support. I’ve made friendships that will last and learned so much from my fellow students.
Lois is an Ordinand on the Undergraduate BA (Hons) programme, studying at St Mellitus College, London (Monday)
My name is Lois, I’m 32 years old and I live in North West London. What to say, I’m always the first and last one on the dancefloor at a party, my favourite season of the year is Summer and, controversially, I don’t like condiments.
What initially piqued my interest in training at St Mellitus College was the fact that I had quite a few friends who had gone there who spoke really highly of it. I was also very keen to continue living in London and remain in the community I was in during this period of my life. I decided to go to an open day and I was struck by how warm everyone I encountered was. I think what drew me to study here was the Generous Orthodoxy ethos of the College and knowing that I would be in a place where there was diversity in terms of different church traditions. When I came here, I felt that in terms of the worship that I encountered.
WHAT DIFFERENCE HAS THE COLLEGE MADE IN YOUR LIFE AND IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD?
For me personally the biggest difference has been an expansive understanding of who God is. It’s easy to be quite insular and coming here I have been blown away because I am just confronted with the reality that God is so much bigger than the ideas and constraints that I have placed upon him. It has been a privilege to be in an environment where different traditions are celebrated, and you are given the opportunity to learn from those traditions. It has given me the chance to experience God in unexpected moments and has increased my love and curiosity towards God.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CULTURE AT ST MELLITUS COLLEGE?
The culture here is one of supportive training, centred around worship and fun.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT ST MELLITUS COLLEGE?
It has such a good mix of people. That was one of the first things that struck me. People from all kinds of different backgrounds and across the College from different church traditions. It’s been cool to see that there is no one type of person who ends up being a priest. We’re all called to this, we’re all different and I love that about the college.
WHAT HAVE YOU ENJOYED THE MOST ABOUT STUDYING AT ST MELLITUS COLLEGE?
My formation group has been a massive highlight. I am so grateful to whoever put me in that group. I have LOVED journeying with such a wonderful group of people.
WHAT TIPS OR ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR A PROSPECTIVE STUDENT?
Come with an open mind, prepare to be challenged, prepare to have your thinking flexed. But also, come prepared to encounter people who are different from you. All of that helps you to make the most of this learning journey. Come open, come hungry, and you will learn.
IN THREE WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR TIME AT ST MELLITUS COLLEGE?
Fun, Challenging, and Unexpected.
I felt that this was a place I could be myself and that was a big attraction.
There has been wonderful mutual support from students and staff, especially from the chaplains who are very proactive in reaching out.
The College makes available a team of chaplains and has access to a counselling service to discuss anything students may be dealing with whilst undertaking their studies. We know that taking on academic study can be a big challenge and often coincides with other changes in people’s lives. Our current students find it such a gift to be able to talk things through with people who are impartial and excellent listeners.
Every student has a Formation Group and tutor while at College. These groups meet regularly and are a key support structure while studying. The College also hosts events to build community, such as social events during Residentials and Teaching Weeks so that students can develop friendships and connect with one another.
Once students are enrolled, they are granted access to our online learning platform, Moodle. This is a great tool, catered to each student’s bespoke needs, with module guides, student handbooks, assignment schedules, reading lists – everything they might need to excel at St Mellitus College. Moodle also provides an extensive and growing suite of digital learning resources.
We recognise that students who come to study each have their own experience of academic learning. Some come from recent university courses and are confident about further study while others find the prospect of academic study more daunting. St Mellitus College is experienced in supporting students from all backgrounds as they engage in academic work. Part of this happens through the formation group system and other pastoral support. In addition, we have a team of academic skills tutors who help a range of students, whether making the step to postgraduate work, returning to study after many years, studying as an adult for the first time, or learning to study with dyslexia or another learning difference. As a College we are especially concerned to assist students with neurodiversity, such as SpLDs, so that they thrive in academic work and ministry.
We hold open days across our centres throughout the year to give a feel for what it’s like to study and train at St Mellitus College.
Visit stmellitus.ac.uk for a list of upcoming open days.
The application process varies dependent on your route of study as indicated below. To complete an application form visit stmellitus.ac.uk/apply
For further information relating to the admissions process, please consult the Admissions Policy available on our website.
1. Book your place on an open day on our website or by emailing info@stmellitus.ac.uk
2. Attend an open day
3. Apply online at stmellitus.ac.uk/apply
4. If you meet the entry requirements, we’ll invite you for an interview
5. Attend an interview
6. Await an offer letter
1. Apply online at stmellitus.ac.uk/apply
2. Book your place on an open day on our website or by emailing info@stmellitus.ac.uk
3. Attend an open day and interview
4. Await an offer letter
Visit stmellitus.ac.uk/apply/fees for further information.
020 7052 0573
info@stmellitus.ac.uk
stmellitus.ac.uk
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.
PHILIPPIANS 4:8
