We strongly encourage all Local Lay-Pastors to access the training, learning and development provided by the Local Lay-Pastor pathway. The training modules are unique and have been developed to support the role of Local Lay-Pastors. They have a strong element of reflecting on practice and therefore can extend the learning of all Local Lay-Pastors regardless of their previous learning and experience.
Accessing the development pathway also provides strong opportunities to connect with others in the role of Local Lay-Pastor and learn together in this distinct office.
However, the Local Lay-Pastor office recognises that all individuals in ministry are at different stages in their learning and development and that any pathway should build on previous learning and experience.
Where a Circuit believes that some or all of the formal learning is not necessary for a Local Lay-Pastor to engage in, they need to detail how previous learning and development matches with the competencies and Cliff College courses. The LLP-APL form enables them to do this. This should be sent to LLP@methodistchurch.org.uk. Please note that while Cliff College delivers the training and learning, they are unable to make decisions about which modules a Local Lay-Pastor needs to do to meet the competencies.
Most line-managers, Superintendents and Local Lay-Pastors find it helpful to have a conversation with the officer for Local Lay-Pastors (Gary Hopkins) to talk through how previous learning and experience might meet the competencies and ascertain what the appropriate pathway to accreditation might be. The officer can then advise how the accreditation form should be completed and what the possible outcomes may be. During the conversations and submission of the accreditation of prior learning and experience form, Ministries will work collaboratively with the Circuit Superintendent, Local Lay-Pastor and their line-manager to to plan an appropriate pathway for the Local Lay-Pastor to meet the competencies.
It is important that as much information, with supporting evidence, is included as possible. Accreditation as a Local Lay-Pastor can only be given when a Circuit is confident that the Local Lay-Pastor is meeting the competencies in their practice.