Words from our students, past and present:
Yvonne Hamilton, based in Stonehouse, Lanarkshire, is studying for stipendiary ministry of the Word and Sacraments with the Scottish College.
"When answering God’s call as someone who had been out of education for a long time, I was nervous and unsure of how I would cope with the academic side of things. However, I was also aware of what I could expect to find from studying at the Scottish College from previous students and as a new first-year student lacking confidence in my own abilities this was very reassuring.
Our Principal, Tutors and staff are always on hand to answer emails or calls with any concerns, and not only provide support but encouragement too.
My chosen mode of studies sees me being part of two learning communities as I study Theology for Ministry, accredited by Durham University with the Scottish Episcopal Institute and my formation with the Scottish College. The relationship between both is very good and has and continues to work well for students choosing this path. This mode can present some difficulties in that it means more time away from home managing residential gatherings. The SEI have one full week and five residential weekends throughout the year at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull. Modules are taught at these residentials as well as on Wednesday evenings online. College residentials this year have so far taken place at the Conforti Centre, Coatbridge, run by the Xaverian Missionaries, with future gatherings planned at the Schoenstatt Retreat in the Campsie Hills and further afield to Italy.
However, the advantage of being part of two learning communities is that it gives you even more peer support and greater ecumenical experience. Within both communities there is a real sense of togetherness, and I look forward to each residential gathering for the learning, the fellowship and the conversations that take place all of which help shape and form me for ministry.
I have also started my first placement this month where I will gain experience, insight and develop as I work alongside my supervisor.
For anyone who like me that may be worried about returning to studies after a while, know that at the Scottish College you will be supported well on your new and exciting journey!"
Margaret Higton, based in Newton Mearns, East Renfrewshire, is studying for non stipendiary ministry at the Scottish College.
"The College or rather the people of the College, be that our Principal, our Tutors, staff, or the Board of Trustees, is both a place and a collection of people where I feel encouraged, valued, and belong. It is a place where I have changed from a very unsure person lacking in confidence, into a person who has learned to love myself again and to believe “I am enough”.
Personally, change has been the most important part of this journey. While I have grown in both confidence and in knowledge I no longer think “Really God are you sure it’s me you want?” to “Ok God, let’s get on with this journey”.
This has been facilitated by the College but also my academic learning at Aberdeen University. I live a 5-hour drive from Aberdeen and am, therefore, an online student where I sit in the comfort of my own home studying, listening to lectures, attending tutorials, submitting essays, reflections and practical pieces of work. At my age (see the photo!) this works well as I can structure academic study around College, placements, family, friends, church, and rest.
While my academic learning is at Aberdeen most of my learning is facilitated by the College. It is there, where we meet weekly online and approximately once a month in person, that “ministry” is taught and placements arranged. We have gathered as a learning community in many places across Scotland and have even ventured south into Northumberland.
We have had (in my time) a learning trip to Dublin and are looking forward to a trip to the North of Italy. I can honestly say that all our time together is not just an opportunity to grow as people; they are also fun and a blessing.
The College has had, and has, students from the north of Scotland to the south coast of England; distance is not a problem. If you are reading this with that question in your heart “Is it me you want God?” go ask, go and seek answers and may God bless you as you search."
The Revd Roberta Ritson attended the Scottish College between 2019 and 2023 from the Northern Synod. She now serves in the North Tyne Ecumenical Partnerships and at Horsley Village Church, Northumberland.
"Three of my four years at the Scottish College were spent at the Scottish Episcopal Institute which involved both residentials at Kinnoull monastery in Perth and an online Theology for Ministry programme accredited by Durham University.
Being part of two learning communities required very frequent trips to Scotland. What’s not to like about that?! Scottish College sessions were particularly creative. A storytelling workshop stands out. We all need the confidence to come ‘off script’, enjoying lively interaction with engaged listeners. During the Pandemic our Principal also encouraged wide-ranging virtual ‘church visits’. Post pandemic we stayed with the Schőnstatt sisters enjoying a blend of learning, self-awareness exercises, and bracing walks in the Campsie Hills. I appreciated the many conversations over meals, and during late night relaxation. At other times I was ready for the quietness of a friendly AirB&B. You should not hesitate to seek out accommodation for Glasgow based College sessions which allows you to unwind best, following long days of study and socialising.
The fact that a student may live and work far from Glasgow does not prevent the Scottish College from liaising closely with placement supervisors nor from coming out to see students on placement visits which were the very best part of my student experience. It was a privilege to be guided by four very different ministers and also to meet so very many people in their own homes. Each placement supervisor was sensitive to my learning needs, always setting tasks just outside my comfort zone as the years progressed giving context to academic studies.
As a volunteer I know I have completed the same courses and put in the same hours as anyone else – all good preparation as my current work is hardly ever ‘part time’. I continue to love pastoral visiting. These first months of ministry have been demanding yet College provided a solid foundation. In summary, my time in Glasgow was characterised by loving, wise oversight and good company. These days I put together a braw cranachan."