Frequently Asked Questions
When does the next course start?
The next course begins 23rd January 2027.
Do you offer taster sessions?
Yes we do. If you’re wondering if the course is for you, why dodn’t you arrange to come in, and sit in a few sessions. You’ll get to experience some of the teaching and also get to meet the course leaders.
Who leads the course?
The regular teaching is provided by pastors from selected churches across the NorthWest, along with guests with considerable ministry experience. They will bring their knowledge, experience and insight regarding teaching the bible across different cultures and scenarios.
Is the course open to women?
Yes. We are all of the belief that there is a large scope and need within the church for women to teach other women, one-to-one, in groups and for women to teach children and we want to help equip those who have been so gifted and called.
How long does the course last?
The course will run for ten months, one Saturday each month, with a break at Easter and finishes in November. Doors open at 9:30am, with a start for 10am. There will be six sessions each day, with each day finishing at 4:30pm.
What are the future dates for the course?
The first session will be held at Bethel Church on 17th January 2026.
Following the first session, the other dates will be: 21st Feb, 18th April, 16th May, 20th June, 18th July, 15th Aug, 19th Sept, 17th Oct, 21st Nov. All dates will be 9:30am – 4:30pm and are subject to change.
Is this a theological course?
The primary purpose of the course is to develop both the understanding of the bible, and to help people put their understanding into practice to help and teach others.
How does this course compare with others?
We strongly encourage the local church to train and develop those within their congregations who possess diverse abilities.
There are other courses, such as the North West Gospel Partnership, that some of our leaders and students have attended and found very helpful. This course is complementary to, and not a replacement for, their course, with different sessions and a different focus.
Do contact them if you’re interested in studying there.
For those who wish to study further, there are many excellent seminaries that we highly recommend, such as the Union School of Theology, from which two of the course leaders are alumni.
We believe the DBT course to be the first step on the ladder to theological learning and practice.
Will I learn to give talks and preach?
Yes. The purpose of the course is to develop bible teachers. This means to teach the bible in all different settings, whether coming alongside individuals, in bible studies or to give talks, including the pulpit ministry.
Will I get the opportunity to give a talk?
After learning the fundementals, we will begin by workshopping together, putting our understanding into practice. In the latter months, students will be put into small groups, where they will personally begin to put what they have learned into practice, gaining support and feedback from their peers and group leader.
I want to study, but do I have to give a talk? I’m nervous.
Nerves are very common, and the best way to overcome it is by speaking in a small, safe group, such as the groups we use. We will be looking to give feedback to individuals, with an emphasis on encouraging and building one another up. Most leaders started with some degree of nerves, and some of us still have them!
Can I miss any sessions?
Missing any sessions will mean gaps in your learning. However, there will be an opportunity to catch up with what has been taught. Sessions may be recorded, and there will be handouts for most sessions.
Will there be any study outside of the course?
To solidify what is being taught, there will be optional homework for those keen to deepen their learning, but we recognise not everyone can fit that into busy schedules.
Is anything else covered on the course apart from giving talks?
Our primary focus is on developing those who want to teach the Bible, but as the course progresses, and particularly into the second year, other aspects of ministry are covered. We are keen to develop a local community of aspiring bible teachers who can encourage one another and give each other opportunities for further practice after the conclusion of the course.
Take a look at the curriculums here.
Will coming on this course qualify me to be a church leader?
No. The qualifications of an elder or deacon are set out in scripture (1 Tim 3:17, Titus 1:5-9, 1 Peter 5:1-4) That would be a matter for your Church leaders to take up with you. This course is purely about developing your skills to understand and teach the Bible.
What qualifications do I need to come on the course?
No qualifications are needed to attend the course, but approval from your Church leader will be required.
Is there a certificate at the end of the course?
The course is not accredited, but a certificate of attendance will be provided to all who attend over 80% of the course.
What type of study will this be?
The course will feature various learning styles. Some sessions will be theory and lecture-based, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and encourage one another in groups. Some sessions will involve joint learning, while at other times, there will be practical applications of what is being taught.
How much does the course cost?
We don’t want cost to be a barrier for anyone attending, but a voluntary donation of £100 for each year will cover all your costs.
Is lunch provided?
Light refreshments will be available throughout the day, but you will need to bring a packed lunch, or you can grab a bite to eat from the town centre, just 5 mins walk away.
Do I need to buy anything for the course?
No. All materials will be provided. There will also be a selection of books for students to borrow should they wish to do any extra-curricular reading around the subject of Bible teaching and preaching.