Sarum College

The biblical prophets are among the most quoted and least understood voices in scripture. What were Isaiah, Jeremiah, Amos and Micah really saying to their own communities and what might their words have to say to us today?
Join Dr Jayme Reaves at Sarum College for this engaging one-day course exploring how to read the prophets responsibly, appreciate their passion, hope and challenge, and apply their insights to contemporary life and faith.
📅 29 September 2026
📍 Sarum College, Salisbury
Find out more and book your place:
https://www.sarum.ac.uk/short-courses/reading-the-biblical-prophets-for-today/ ~

Sometimes what we need most is space.

Space to think. Space to pray. Space to rest. Space to focus.

Whether you're navigating a life change, recovering from illness, experiencing burnout, or simply seeking uninterrupted study time, Sarum College's Wellness and Study Breaks offer a peaceful place to pause.

Bursaries of up to 100% are available for eligible clergy, licensed lay ministers and ordinands.

📧 [email protected]

https://www.sarum.ac.uk/learning/private-stays-retreats-study-breaks-and-sabbaticals/

What does "growth" really look like for a local church?

Too often, we measure the health of a church purely by headcount. But true, sustainable growth is a beautiful, multi-dimensional tapestry.

Our upcoming onsite course, Planning for Growth, is designed to explore what it means for churches to grow in three vital areas:
🌱 Spiritually – deepening our discipleship and roots in faith.
🌍 Missionally – engaging with and serving our wider communities.
👥 Numerically – welcoming new seekers into our church families.

If you are a church leader, pioneer, or lay minister, start thinking about the future of your parish this August. Spend some time mapping out what healthy, authentic growth could look like for your unique community.

Gather your team and get ready to join us onsite in the peaceful surroundings of the Salisbury Cathedral Close.

🔗 Explore the course and book your team's places: https://www.sarum.ac.uk/short-courses/planning-for-growth/

An interesting article from our former Principal James Woodward

"Formation is never simply about structures or pathways, but about attending faithfully to the human beings called to serve God’s Church." ⛪

As part of our guest blog series, Prof James Woodward, former Principal of Sarum College, explores the impact of the Ministry Training Fund, and suggests two radical shifts to theological learning.

Read more:
www.clergysupport.org.uk/woodward

There is something uniquely powerful about stepping away from sermon prep at your desk to study scripture in community.

On Friday, 16th October, we are gathering onsite at Sarum College for a dedicated study day: “𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸'𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗹”.

Whether you're an experienced preacher looking for fresh inspiration for the upcoming lectionary year, or someone who simply loves biblical theological exploration, this day is for you.

Led by Revd Paul Burden, we will immerse ourselves in Mark’s narrative style, exchange ideas in group discussions, and leave with practical, real-world tools to feed our congregations.

Come for the deep theological learning, stay for the wonderful community—and the delicious lunch included with your ticket!

Don't wait to book—onsite spaces are limited to ensure a collaborative, interactive environment.

🔗 Details and registration: https://www.sarum.ac.uk/short-courses/preaching-marks-gospel/

Life is full of transitions. Some we choose, others arrive unexpectedly. Join Nigel Rooms for the Integration Through Life Transitions Retreat Package (21-24 September), a residential retreat offering time for reflection, conversation and renewal.

Combining Navigating Life Transitions (21-22 September) and Integration Through the Mid-life Transition (23-24 September), this retreat explores change, growth and discernment in a prayerful and supportive setting.
Can't attend all four days? Both retreats can also be booked separately, allowing you to choose the option that suits you best.

Find out more and book:
🔗 https://www.sarum.ac.uk/short-courses/integration-through-life-transitions-retreat-package/

Children and teenagers spend the majority of their week with parents and carers—in the messy, ordinary, everyday moments. That is exactly where God is so present.

If we want to nurture a faith in the next generation that is deep, rooted in scripture, and built to last, we have to look closely at how our churches resource families.

On 7th October (10am - 1pm), Sarum College is hosting a special online short course in partnership with Parenting for Faith.

Whether you're ordained, a staff member, or a passionate volunteer, you'll leave with a clear, practical next step tailored to your unique church context. No overwhelming programs—just sustainable, confidence-building tools.

Secure your spot today to help families in your community thrive.

🔗 Details and booking: https://www.sarum.ac.uk/short-courses/deeper-rooted-lasting-your-churchs-ministry-to-parents-and-carers/

Connect with Parenting for Faith:
https://www.parentingforfaith.brf.org.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parentingforfaithBRF
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingforfaithbrf

Discover the timeless wisdom of Francis and Clare of Assisi in our online series, The Courage to Care: Francis and Clare of Assisi for Today. Together we'll explore their lives, spiritual journeys and enduring insights for living with generosity, compassion and purpose in today's world.

Led by theologian and church historian Dr Gillian Ahlgren, the course explores themes including spiritual discontent, transformation, intentional community, contemplation and wise living. No previous knowledge is required.

🗓️ 23 & 30 September, 7 & 14 October
💻 Online via Zoom

Find out more: 🔗 https://www.sarum.ac.uk/short-courses/the-courage-to-care-francis-and-clare-of-assisi-for-today/

Our friends at Diocese of Salisbury are running a Digital Conference on Saturday 12 September, 10am - 4pm, at St Francis', Salisbury! Further information below.

We're really looking forward to the Digital Conference on Saturday 12 September, 10am - 4pm, at St Francis', Salisbury!

Take a look at the programme for what promises to be a practical and inspiring day, and be sure to book your place via the Learning Hub (tickets cost £6) - https://buff.ly/X4E4oK6