New Area/Rural Deans – learning community

West Midlands Regional Training

A year-round learning community for Area/Rural Deans who have recently been appointed into post

Taking on the role of Area, or Rural, Dean can be a daunting responsibility to add to an already full ministry.

This course is planned as part of the West Midlands Region CMD training programme, to encourage and equip those from around the region who have recently taken on this new role. It provides a valuable opportunity to meet together with those from around the region, and learn from the diversity of each others' contexts and experiences. We do not aim to cover every topic in depth, or answer every question, but we trust that you will gain useful ideas and insights to help equip you. The sessions within the programme will typically include:

- Discerning purpose and direction for a deanery

- Managing change

- Working well with Chapter and Synod

- Practical tips for everyday issues

The course will involve one in-person meeting and one zoom meeting each term. As the programme is cyclical, you can join at any time. In-person meetings will take place in central Birmingham, close to New Street Station.

The programme lead and organiser is the Revd Alison Evans, vicar of Holy Trinity, Attleborough, in the Diocese of Coventry. Alison was an Area Dean in Coventry North before moving to her current post. There will be input from a variety of backgrounds including those with Archdeacon and Area Dean experience. There will be an emphasis on sharing of experience with plenty of time for formal and informal discussion.

Who is it for?

The course is planned especially for those who have been recently appointed as Area/Rural Deans within the dioceses of the West Midlands, with awareness of the diversity of roles and contexts.

Upcoming dates:

2025

11th February – Birmingham – Conflict management

1st April – Zoom

6th May – Birmingham – New Models of Ministry / Change management

1st July – Zoom

14th October – Birmingham – Deanery planning & Wellbeing

18th November - Zoom

Venue: St Martin in the Bull Ring, Edgbaston Street, Birmingham B5 5BB

Cost: approximately £200 per person.

What do I do now?

If you wish to find out more about this course, please contact your diocesan CMD officer or administrator who will send you further details. You can find their details under the Contact tab.