Who we are
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Get to know us, where we've come from and where we are going
Formed is a 10-month training course designed to help you deepen your understanding of Scripture, grow in discipleship and strengthen leadership skills. We are committed to robust theological training, and throughout the course, you will learn from a range of voices with substantial academic experience in theology and a strong history in practical pastoral leadership.
The course is built around three teaching streams: Head, Heart, and Hands. Each monthly weekend includes three sessions, carefully designed to help you grow in understanding, spiritual formation, and practical skills.
HEAD
These sessions give you a strong foundation in the Bible and Christian belief. You’ll explore the story of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation, study key doctrines like the Trinity, who Jesus is, and salvation, and trace church history from the early church through the Reformation to modern revival movements. You’ll also learn how to think carefully and faithfully about challenges facing today’s church.
HEART
These sessions focus on growing your relationship with God and living in the Spirit. You’ll explore spiritual practices, discover and develop your spiritual gifts, understand spiritual struggles, and grow in your identity as a follower
of Jesus.
HANDS
These sessions focus on putting faith into action. You’ll develop skills in teaching and preaching, sharing the gospel in different cultures and contexts, leading with integrity, serving the poor, and mentoring others to step into their calling.
Throughout the year, you’ll be encouraged to apply what you learn in all areas of life. This isn’t just classroom learning—it’s active formation in a community of fellow learners. By the end of the course, you won’t just know more; you’ll be equipped to teach others, lead with confidence, and live out your calling with clarity and purpose.
When & Where
The course runs from January to November, with a break in August. Sessions take place on one Friday evening and one Saturday daytime each month. Each weekend will cover three topics, and all sessions are designed to be interactive.
Location
The Riverside Centre, Clockhouse, Ashford, TN23 4YN
Schedule
• Friday: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm)
• Saturday: 9:30 am – 3:00 pm (two sessions with a lunch break)
Dates for 2026
January — 16th & 17th
February — 20th & 21st
March — 20th & 21st
April — 24th & 25th
May — 15th & 16th
June — 19th & 20th
July — 17th & 18th
September — 18th & 19th
October — 16th & 17th
November — 20th & 21st
Fees.
The course costs £330, which can be paid in full or in monthly instalments.
Concessions are available — please contact us for more information
Support.
The number of students in any cohort has been deliberately capped in order to ensure each student gets appropriate support throughout
the course.
Students will be placed into Legacy Groups (3-4 students) within which they will meet outside of taught sessions, for encouragement and group work as assigned. Each student will also be assigned a tutor who will meet with them 3 times during the year.
Accreditation.
We are expecting that the Open College Network (OCN) will provide the accreditation for this course. If you wish to gain accreditation, additional fees will apply.
You can choose one of the following options:
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Academic Credits (Level 4) – equivalent to the first year of university study. This option is ideal if you plan to pursue a theological degree in the future. Additional cost: £100.
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Continued Professional Development (CPD) Certificate – suitable for those already working in a professional capacity who wish to record their ongoing development. Additional cost: £75.
More Questions?
If you need more information, please see our FAQs or get in touch with formed@gatewaychurchashford.co.uk