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GET READY

to serve the next generation
GET READY

NEW APPROACHES

to mission and discipleship
NEW APPROACHES

LEAD OTHERS

with clarity and confidence
LEAD OTHERS

LEAP

into their world
LEAP

EXPLORE

the issues that matter
EXPLORE

GATHER

for inspirational teaching
GATHER

What is Catalyst?

Free and fully funded by the Church of England, Catalyst is a dynamic training course which aims to equip and connect those who work with children and young people in the local church.

  • Who is it for?
  • What will I gain?
  • What is involved?
  • What next?
Catalyst is for:
  Those who want to be equipped, empowered and resourced to serve the next generation.
  Those who want to be a catalyst for change in our churches and communities.
  People with a range of experience, from new volunteers to paid children and youth workers.
You will gain:
  New knowledge and skills to lead children and young people.
  An understanding of the Christian faith and a deeper ability to relate this to your role.
  Partnerships with others, both locally and nationally.
  A chance to explore further study.
  An option to complete an assignment and gain 20 credits at level 4 qualification.
Catalyst includes:
  Five sessions of locally held learning groups.
  A 3-day conference.
  A regional induction day.
  Access to digital resources and learning activities to complete in your own time.
  A graduation day.
  If you are in conversation with your Diocese about starting the Catalyst course, get back in touch with them and sign up.
  Alternatively, fill in the form at the bottom of this page to register your interest.

Course Overview

October 2026 entry:

Catalyst for Mission: Discover what it means to play your part in God’s mission to the world.

  • @ North (TBC )
  • @ South (TBC)

Explore the importance of developing a deeper relationship with God, your team and the children and young people you minister to.

Expand your understanding about how children and young people learn and how this can be used for effective discipleship.

Ignite your passion for mission with children and young people by taking a closer look at the cultural contexts you are in.

Take a deep dive into what discipleship is for children and young people today in the Hayes Conference Centre, Derbyshire.

Dates: TBC

Understand the importance of inclusion and some of the practical steps that youth and children’s leaders can take towards more inclusive group work.

Show others all that you have learnt during the Catalyst course by giving a short presentation about an aspect of your ministry over the past year.

Celebrate all that you have achieved over the course and look ahead at all that God has in store as you continue to play your part in God’s mission to children and young people.

Date: TBC

Why Catalyst?

Because...

Catalyst develops sustainable leadership, encourages innovation, and builds supportive networks across parishes and Dioceses.

By investing in those who serve children, young people and families Catalyst helps churches grow healthier, more connected, and more outward-looking ministries. Its impact can be seen in renewed confidence among leaders, deeper engagement and stronger partnerships that respond creatively to local church contexts.

Watch full interviews

Participant stories

Participant 1
Participant 1Youth Minister
Exeter Diocese
quote
Participant 2
Participant 2Children and Families Minister
Diocese of Southwark
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Participant 3
Participant 3Volunteer Youthworker
Ely Diocese
quote
Participant 4
Participant 4Families and Community minister
Lichfield Diocese
quote
Participant 5
Participant 5Children's ministry volunteer
Canterbury Diocese
quote

The big picture...

Participants consistently describe Catalyst as a transformative and deeply encouraging experience. Many speak of gaining renewed confidence in their calling, alongside practical tools that have immediately strengthened their work with children, young people, and families. For many, Catalyst has not only enhanced their skills but also renewed their sense of purpose and identity in ministry.

Watch more participant interviews

Register interest on behalf of your Diocese

Diocesan registration for the next Catalyst programme commencing late Sept 2026 is now open.

If your Diocese would like to express interest, please send us your email address by filling in the form below, and we will keep you updated with further details.

The Catalyst team

Last modified: Friday, 22 May 2026, 5:07 PM

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Useful Links

  • The 30k Project
  • Growing Faith Foundation
  • Church Support Hub

About Catalyst

Catalyst is overseen by the Church of England and delivered in partnership with

© 2026 Church of England | Archbishops Council
     
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