Many under-18s aren’t in church but the majority of them are in schools.
So what does it look like for our churches to connect with them there?
Introduction to Schools Ministry Training
Join us for our schools training and be equipped and encouraged to explore schools work in a way that’s relevant for your community. Designed for those new to schools work, the Introduction to Schools Ministry course is suitable for schools workers and church-based youth and children’s workers – both paid and unpaid.
Our training days will feature sessions on thinking strategically, collective worship and clubs, as well as other opportunities to explore the Christian faith, helpful resources and how we can ensure a relational and long-term approach.
Online training
As well as our brilliant in-person training, we also offer an online version of the Introduction to Schools Ministry course.
This live session covers the same great content and is delivered via Zoom, so you can join from wherever you are. It’s a fantastic option if you can’t attend in person or simply prefer to take part from home or your office.
📅 Online Training Details:
Date: Thursday, 10th September 2026
Time: 9:15am – 8:45pm (with breaks)
Platform: Zoom (link provided after registration)
Cost: Free
Training Programme Overview
9:15am - 10:30am - Session 1: Introduction
and thinking strategically
11:00am - 12:00pm - Session 2: Collective Worship
12:45pm - 1:45pm - Session 3: Explore opportunities
(clubs, lessons, workshops)
2:00pm - 2:50pm - Session 4: Resources in action
7:45pm - 8:45pm - Session 5: Love your school
To access these free online training sessions, you will need to have signed up to receive Mission Sparks emails from Scripture Union. Discover more about Mission Sparks and how, together, we can unlock the full potential of your outreach to children and young people here.
In-Person Training
There’s no substitute for being in the room.
In-person training offers the richest experience – not just in content, but in connection. When you gather with others who share your heart for schools work, something powerful happens: ideas spark, confidence builds and conversations go deeper. If you're serious about starting well in schools ministry, this is the best place to begin.
✅ Tailored advice
Receive guidance specific to your school context and community.
✅ Space to focus
Step away from distractions and dedicate a full day to growing your ministry skills.
✅ Real-time feedback
Get instant answers to your questions from experienced trainers.
✅ Shared experience
Learn alongside others, building a network that lasts beyond the training day.
✅ Deeper conversations
Engage in rich, face-to-face discussions that spark fresh ideas.
✅ Relationship building
Make connections that could lead to collaboration and long-term support.
✅ Encouragement boost
Leave inspired and energised by being around people who share your calling.
✅ Extra time to explore trusted resources
Get hands-on with the most effective materials.
Join us in-person – and leave equipped, inspired and supported.
📅 In-Person Training Details:
(Limited places available!)
Upcoming dates (venues TBC):
Central: Tuesday 8 September
South: Tuesday 15 September
North: Thursday 17 September
South Wales: Wednesday 30 September
The Revealing Jesus mission framework
Although each child and young person is different, our research and experience show us that most go through the same stages as they become and grow as a Christian: Connect, Explore, Respond and Grow.
The Revealing Jesus mission framework provides shaping principles for each stage, but also offers flexibility in expression as we recognise that contexts, and children and young people themselves, vary hugely.
Discover more
Schools ministry is all about taking the good news of Jesus into schools and creating opportunities for children and young people to Connect with others, Explore the Bible, Respond to Jesus, and Grow in their faith.
Discover how we can help you and your church as you reach out to children and young people in your local schools.