Educational Stance...

Learning is a process and discipline that encompasses the whole person. Learners need to be intentional, taking responsibility for engagement, reflection, self-direction and goal setting. Education is enhanced when individual uniqueness is honoured and respected within community.

Community models of education are enabled when a climate of co-operation and collaboration, interdependence and mutuality is fostered, and all see themselves as co-leaders and co-learners. Learning needs to respect diversity by offering variety in approach and style, by honouring differences in background and viewpoint.

Learning is challenging and needs to anticipate and acknowledge the painful prospect of struggle and transformation, the probable resistance to change and transition, and the potential feelings of loss. Learning also needs to be supportive within an atmosphere of empowerment and affirmation, safety and trust where self-esteem is enhanced, questions are encouraged and potential is appreciated.

Learning for diaconal ministry needs to be formative, preparing women and men for lives of servant leadership and social transformation. Experiential learning models incorporate academic study and concrete experience, action and reflection. This learning needs to be integrative, valuing theory and practice, ideas and feelings, past, present and future.

Learning needs to be open to the possibility of education in every situation and to the promise of surprise and new insight. Learning makes and reveals meaning. This process is enriched by the experience and expertise of the larger community that surrounds and includes the learners. Learning needs to be relevant and stretching, connecting the broader church and world with learners in a way that informs, inspires and equips.

Read more about our educational approach.