Introducing #StudentStories

2023-24 is a big year for KST. It marks our 40th birthday!

King’s School of Theology began life as a full-time residential college, serving the Salt and Light (S&L) network of churches. In 1983 the first cohort gathered near Vancouver. Over the years over 1230 people have studied with King’s Theology – people who were trained in God’s word, for lives dedicated to his purposes. They have gone on to all sorts of things across the world. That is quite a legacy, and we think it deserves celebrating.

As part of a series of celebrations, we commissioned this ‘student stories’ project. We have gathered stories of alumni from across the 40 years, asking them what studying theology at KBC/KBCTC/KST[1] meant to them, and how it has shaped them over the years.

The stories are wonderful. They represent people who have been ‘infected’ for God’s Kingdom, who love His Word, and who are serving him in a myriad of ways. From those running housing projects to leading churches, from working in NHS hospitals to becoming a foster carer, studying theology equips God’s people for all of life.

We will post one or two stories every week. We hope they provide encouragement as you look back at your own journey with God.

If you would like to explore studying with us, come along to a free online Taster event. It’s a great way to find out what we do and why!

^[1] KST has been known under various names over the years: – King’s Bible College, King’s Bible College and Training Centre and King’s Theological College when it was a full-time programme; King’s School of Theology in its part time form. Each transition was marked by changes in personnel, location and structure, but also consistency. The core vision to train people in the Word of God, in a worshiping and active community, has remained the same.   

Read more about our History

“Studying at KST was wonderful. It opened my eyes to different ways of looking at God and the world around me. It helped me to explore my own faith and beliefs, and challenged me to think about the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of faith. I found a voice I never knew I had and became more confident to use it. KST helped me to step forward into new things, and new ways of thinking.

Before arriving at KST I had been through a period of job uncertainty, isolation (having been made redundant), anxiety and depression. Having reconnected with church I spoke with my pastors about how I was keen to study the Bible, and a lady who had recently finished her studies and joined our church recommended the course. It seemed to offer the ideal blend of study and community, which could fit alongside my family, church and work life. I couldn’t take a year out, but was keen not to study purely online – I wanted to connect with others.

One of the most valuable things about KST was the community! Learning together, challenging, discussing, supporting and encouraging one another. Having that ‘oasis’ of a weekend away to study amongst other people was so special.

The teaching was outstanding. The questions and discussions that took place during the teaching times (and often over a cuppa afterwards) were great to build our learning. The essays (particularly on the Theology and Christian Spirituality track) helped to apply learning to my life. Studying inevitably challenged me in some areas, for example learning to worship in new ways. But this was often very moving.

When I started KST I was quiet and had very little confidence. That changed. The variety of ways we were expected to mix with others…from classroom discussions to forming friendships over lunch, supporting one another in formation groups and working with people who were different to me – I just had to throw myself in! I found my voice and gained confidence in using it.

Another highlight was the Mentoring Groups. 5 or 6 of us were grouped together with a mentor, and we met between teaching weekends. Our mentor was supportive and thoughtful, and mentoring became a place to get academic help but also to pray for one another. It was a chance to be supported and to support others.

Studying theology helps to shape your thinking. It helps you as you participate in the world around you, whether that is at home, at work or church. It gives you the tools to learn more about God, about others and the way we live out our faith.

KST helped me to step into the next “thing” God has for me. I have just started on a Ministers in Training Programme with a view to becoming a chaplain or church minister.

I flourished at KST. I found a new calling and I am moving into that with a solid foundation on which to build”.