Graduation for Baptist local leaders course 

The first cohort of students on a two year course designed to help Baptist church members deepen their understanding of faith and develop skills in ministry and mission has graduated

Around 30 participants received certificates during a graduation ceremony for The Learning Collective (TLC) at Baptist House on Saturday (14 June). 

TLC is a programme offered in Southern Counties Baptist Association, Central Baptist Association and London Baptists, and hosted by Regent's Park College, Oxford. 

It ran from 2023 until now, with a new cohort beginning in September. 

TLC is a practically orientated course, delivered from a mission perspective, which aims to help participants in the way they serve God in and beyond the church, and help them think more deeply about living as a Christian in the modern world.  

They engage in a wide range of topics relevant to leaders today such as reflective practice, spirituality, the Bible, Baptist history, mission, pastoral leadership, and more.

Each month they are required to undertake tasks ranging from listening to a podcast, journalling, reading, reflecting, or even going for a contemplative walk.

Learning in community is a key aspect. TLC is both an onsite and online course that requires monthly attendance for two hours. Participants are expected to attend all the sessions as this contributes to a rich learning environment, enabling them to learn from each other and build relationships across our churches and Associations.

'It was a joy to award certificates to our first cohort of The Learning Collective on Saturday 14 June,' said course leader Jane Day, Lecturer in Community Learning at Regent's Park College. 

'For me, TLC has modelled associating at its very best. Learners gather each month across all parts of the country and meet in homes and churches, and connect with other hubs simultaneously. 

'The friendships that have been formed have been tremendous and some groups will continue to meet.' 



Participants have spoken highly of the course when invited to share their thoughts for potential inclusion in a yearbook.

'I was never looking to be a local minister, but God had clearly singled me out to be a church secretary,' wrote Sara O’Shea. 

'The Learning Collective has particularly deepened my knowledge of Baptist History which has, in turn, made me reflect on my position of leadership within the local church. There is a lot to challenge and ponder in the course and I have gained so much from each module. 

'What really surprised me was the wonderful fellowship in our little WhatsApp group. So much blessing, encouragement and kindness. Yes, it’s a commitment, especially if you are doing the assignments, but it’s an amazing opportunity to learn more and to deepen your faith.'

Catriona Gillies wrote, 'I joined the Learning Collective to explore further some elements of theology, as I thought I was too old for college and this would be the perfect learning experience. I am now applying for college and accreditation ministry! 

'This has been a great journey and I have made some wonderful friends.'

David Clark added, 'Taught by excellent communicators and experts in their particular topics, The Learning Collective has equipped me with skills and Christian disciplines that I simply couldn’t imagine gaining other than through this course. 

'It has been a privilege to participate, and to learn together with other members of my local church. Thank you.'


The next TLC begins in September, and runs from 2025-27.

'Anyone with a heart for growing in discipleship is welcome to join The Learning Collective,' said Jane. 'We draw on the wisdom of practitioners in their chosen fields and connect tutors with students in pre-work, and assessments.

'Bookings are now being taken for September 2025 across hubs in the Central, Southern Counties, and London Baptist Associations. 

'We also host an online group and participants can join from anywhere in the world.'
 

More details can be found here