St John’s College, Chilwell Lane, Bramcote, Nottingham NG9 3DS United Kingdom

0115 925 1114

Guidance notes for referees

Please read before writing your reference on the candidate

St John’s College has been preparing men and women for Christian ministry since 1863. We belong to the tradition of the Church of England, but work with all Christians in the UK and abroad. Our six key values inform all that we do: biblically rooted, spiritually alive, missionally active, academic rigorous, relationally committed and actively collaborative. We are committed to make high quality theological education open to all and particularly those who need to study by distance learning.

For more details about the college visit our website:

https://stjohns-nottm.ac.uk/

As well as the basic course of Certificate in Christian Studies we have a range of programmes validated by Durham University as part of the Common Awards Scheme, from Foundation Award to the MA. Modules cover biblical studies, Christian belief and practical theology at levels 4 – 7, and it possible to progress from one level to another over time.

Support for students includes a personal tutor for each module to help with issues arising from the module materials and to guide them through writing assignments.

Qualities in applicants

We seek to admit candidates who will are capable of undertaking and benefitting from a programme of study at St John’s. We are looking for a number of key qualities and would ask you as referee to comment on these in order to help us consider this application:

1.  Potential for the appropriate level of study

Entry to the CCS course is open to all while the university programmes require the fulfilment of the admission criteria stipulated by Durham University. The website gives details of what is necessary, and we are able to consider each case individually. Some students may be given exceptions on account of life and work experiences, and others may undertake some prior personal study before embarking on the programme to demonstrate suitability. Your best judgment on these matters is greatly valued.

2. Strong motivation

A part-time course of this kind requires significant perseverance, and the applicant’s motivation for doing the course will be tested. We would be grateful for a referee’s guidance on whether the applicant has previously shown evidence of a sense of commitment to tasks.

3. Genuine interest in Christian ministry

The aim of this programme is to equip Christian disciples to develop as competent and faithful reflective practitioners. To this end it provides an education in theology, ministry and mission in and for a variety of contexts. The programme serves those who wish to be more fully equipped for Christian life and service in the world, or simply more informed about the Christian faith.

4. Ability to make the time necessary for study

The programmes are completed within set time limits and students should be aware of these restrictions. There is a significant study load to carry, and we would value your advice about whether the applicant has time available.

Thank you for providing this reference.

St John’s College, Chilwell Lane, Bramcote, Nottingham NG9 3DS United Kingdom

0115 925 1114

St John’s College, Nottingham

Reference Form

REFEREE
Name / Telephone / Day
Evening
Address / Email
Applicants Name
What is your relationship to this applicant?
Please comment below on how far the candidate demonstrates the five qualities outlined above required for entrance into this programme (potential for the appropriate level of study; strong motivation; genuine interest in Christian ministry; ability to make the time necessary for study):
Signed ………………………………………………………………… Date ………………………………………

Please return the completed reference form to the St John’s registry by post or email attachment.

St John’s College, Chilwell Lane, Bramcote, Nottingham NG9 3DS United Kingdom

0115 925 1114