I've been blessed with the opportunity to invest in a variety of training for my work. Taking the time to reflect theologically on a variety of issues as well as being instructed in good practice will be an invaluable springboard for my current and future work. Here's some information about what I've studied.
BA Primary Education (University of Strathclyde)
For three years I studied at Jordanhill training to be a Primary school teacher. Although it wasn't to be my final career choice some of the things I learned there became a vital part of my current toolbox for working with children. Most helpful was all the training in "teaching and learning". Pedagogy (the process of teaching and learning) applies in all areas of my work. I had to find out how people actually learn, the different ways that our minds process information and then how to most effectively communicate a message in a way that will be understandable for the learner. All of these things vary depending on the age and stage of a child's development and will be affected by any significant traumas or factors which hinder their development. I studied some basic child psychology surrounding the issue of "challenging behaviour" and how to cope with this. Although all my studies were based on a classroom context the general principles and working tools carry over in to my work with children elsewhere.
BA Theology with Specialism in Children's Ministry (International Christian College)
I joined ICC in 2008 and somehow I'm still there! So far it's been a great opportunity to invest in academic study of a whole variety theological and practical subject. The theology part of my degree comprises of 'Old and New Testatment' studies, 'Church History' and 'Belief and Thought'. Each subject area has challenged and expanded in many ways my knowledge and understand of the Bible and how to use, challenged my own faith and belief systems and helped me to process theology in an academic sphere.
The practical elemets of my degree include all the relevant training available on Children's Minstry including modules on, "Children, Family and Society", "Child Development", "Children and the Church", "Children with ASLN" and "Children at Risk". Through these modules I've been able to cover so many helpful topics and have had access to a huge range of resources. There's never enough time to get through them all! There has also been the opportunity to take classes in mission studies - covering everything from biblical examples of mission in the old and new testaments to the practical application of missional theology both in the UK and abroad. As part of my training I've been on several placements arranged by the college in both Christian churches and secular organisations.
This year I will be taking up my honours study with a focus on both the Old Testament and Children's Ministry. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to invest in some in-depth research about specific topics and the challenge of processing it all.
