BECOME A
CONTEMPORARY
CHAPLAIN
Be the good news where it matters most.
Part-time, online training for those called to serve in or beyond the walls of the church—in everyday and professional contexts.
- Become a Contemporary Chaplain in under 12 months, whatever your background
- Gain the foundational training and confidence to serve in community settings such as healthcare, education, and workplaces
- Develop practical skills for spiritual conversations, pastoral care, and engaging questions of faith through Christian apologetics
We have three courses to choose from:
| Course | Duration | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Contemporary Chaplaincy | 6 once-a-week sessions | Online |
| Certificate in Contemporary Chaplaincy | 1 year | Online | Chaplaincy Skills for Schools | 15 weeks | Online |
Is Contemporary Chaplaincy for you?
Many chaplains begin not with a clear plan, but with a gentle pull — towards people who are hurting, spaces where faith feels absent, and moments where Gospel presence matters. If you’re drawn to people beyond the church walls, Contemporary Chaplaincy might be for you.
Being a chaplain has been one of my greatest joys in over 40 years of ministry. Chaplaincy is a challenging and invigorating adventure, discovering where Jesus is at work in the most unexpected of places and people. It is at the cutting edge of the church mission today.
Ian Nicholson, Sports Chaplain, Woking Football Club
Most people don’t set out to become chaplains
It usually begins with an unexpected but surprisingly meaningful encounter in your local neighbourhood, with someone who is interested in faith but not connected to a church.
Contemporary Chaplaincy offers a way to be a Gospel presence in places where it is needed the most.
Whether you are exploring Contemporary Chaplaincy for the first time or seeking training for an existing role, our training equips you to serve God wherever He places you.
Regulated vs. non-regulated Contemporary Chaplaincy
Our Certificate in Contemporary Chaplaincy equips you for a wide range of non-regulated settings, such as schools, retail, sport, private organisations, community work, etc.
Regulated sectors (such as healthcare, prisons, or the armed forces) have additional requirements. These can range from further qualifications (i.e. a diploma in Theology or ordination) to age limits (i.e. The Armed Forces). For some, our courses become a stepping stone towards further training, accreditation, or ordination pathways.
If you would like help understanding how our training can help you become a Contemporary Chaplain within a specific field, please do book a Next Steps call to discuss.
Bespoke Team Training
Our highly-regarded Contemporary Caplaincy training can be tailored to your team, network, or organisation—equipping people to serve effectively in your specific context. Successful participants are awarded the Waverley Abbey College Certificate in Contemporary Chaplaincy, with bespoke training shaped to support the impact you want to see.
Start a conversation about training at your organisation:
Email contemporary@waverleyabbeycollege.ac.uk
Explore the Next Step today
Book a 20-min call with our team to explore the next step for you based on your current experience level, capacity and goals.