What people say about Open Learning/ICES*
It is most impressive to see the number of people who are being reached by ICES. I remain firmly committed to what we are doing
Trevor Jones, Archdeacon of Hertford (top photo)
ICES is a gift to the church and kingdom which benefits many individual Christians and corporately the church
Chris Foster, Bishop of Hertford (second photo)
I firmly believe that the future of Britain requires a radical
change of priorities and traditions within our churches, including what
is necessary in leadership training. There is a cost to Christianity.
We need to seriously disciple our people far beyond Alpha... If Alpha
brings people into the churches, Theological Education by Extension has
the proven potential to thrust them out again better equipped and
prepared to penetrate and change society for Jesus.
Michael Huggins, Oxen Ministries
My Diocesan Director of Ordinands recommended ICES as part of my preparation for ordination selection. Coming from a non-theological background I found it an excellent way in - the course materials were very good, my group was a mixed, very friendly bunch, and it was helpful in providing an academic reference. ICES is ideal for anyone considering some form of authorised church ministry.
Peter Kay, Trinity ordinand
I studied six biblical courses over nearly four years in home study and
fortnightly tutorials, and it changed my life. Each module was like a
new box of treasure. Just as marvellous as the study was the close
fellowship that developed among us as we discussed what we'd studied,
and the deepening respect as we were challenged by each other's
different views.
Gay Carpenter, student and now a tutor
The course enabled me to study the Bible in far greater depth than I could ever do on my own. The tutorials are something I really look forward to. We are learning together and I love hearing other people's experiences of God from different church backgrounds
Amanda Furlong, Colney Heath
The courses have allowed me to give substantial evidence, in recent application for ordination training, that I am capable of engaging in theological study
Tim Horlock, Wadesmill
I look back over all the times we've shared through ICES...the confusions, the insights, the growth of knowledge, the pain and tears, the growth of understanding, tolerance and forgiveness, the prayers, the laughter, the friendship, the gifts I can share with others... what an extraordinary list!
Sue Waller
The church often speaks about the ministry of all believers: this course equips people to fulfil that task. It makes Bible study accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds, who want to learn more about their faith. Even though I have been privileged to study Theology at Cambridge I have found this course more helpful in my ministry and certainly much more enjoyable
Lynda Klimas, Vicar of Cople, Moggerhanger and Willington
What a fine course! I wish all theological students had the chance to do something as thorough, interactive and valuable
David Wenham, Vice-Principal, Trinity College Bristol
Without my study of the biblical courses I would never have coped with ordination training
Charmaine Sabey-Corkindale, Anglican priest
We at Malmesbury Abbey feel that the Open Learning course through Trinity College is a significant way for people to deepen their understanding of the Bible and, subsequently, be drawn closer to the Trinitarian God. This echoes our vision at the Abbey for our community to not only learn more about God but also live out the truth of that learning in their everyday lives. It is our hope that Open Learning will contribute to that vision.
Lee Barnes, Curate, Malmesbury Abbey, Wiltshire which started its first course in January
* Courses developed by ICES (Interactive Christian Extension Studies) are now offered as the Open Learning programme of Trinity College - see How the courses developed.
Learning churches... growing churches
