Training Incumbent
SKILLS
FULL DESCRIPTION
Training Incumbent Recruitment for 2027 Curacies
The Diocese is reshaping IME2 so that training and formation are more coherent, supportive and mission‑focused. As part of this, we are renewing how we identify, select and equip Training Incumbents (TIs).
Following Diocesan Synod’s decision to remove the parish contribution to curate housing, the range of possible placements has widened—financial constraints need no longer shape where curates can serve. Our focus now shifts decisively from places to people: the right Training Incumbents in the right formation partnerships.
We are therefore investing deeply in those who will form new ministers—so that curates, incumbents, and parishes flourish together both in pressure and in peace.
What’s Changing?
A people‑centred approach to matching curates and TIs
- Applications to serve as a TI open in February 2026 for curacies beginning after ordination in summer 2027.
- A strengthened TI role description and clearer expectations of the formation partnership.
- A rigorous discernment and interview process to ensure readiness for this significant ministry.
- Successful applicants hold ‘Prospective TI’ status for three years, enabling longer‑term planning and consistent formation.
- Curate‑TI matching will be based on suitability, formation needs, and missional context—not housing availability.
- Extended training, support and accompaniment for TIs throughout the process.
This is a substantial investment in the people forming future priests and leaders across our mixed ecology.
Apply to Become a Training Incumbent
We invite clergy with a passion for forming new ministers to consider whether God may be calling them to this role.
Documents
- Training Incumbent Role Description *(download)*
- Training Incumbent Application Form
- Training Incumbent Application Form PDF Version
If you would like these documents in an alternative format, please contact the Mission & Ministry team.
Overview of the Process (2026 Timeline)
Below is the planned process for selecting new Training Incumbents for curates being ordained in 2027.
Spring 2026
- Conversations with ordinands
- Application Window
- Tuesday 27 January – Applications open
- Monday 23 February – Applications close
- Applications reviewed with Archdeacons
- Week of 23 March – Interviews of potential Training Incumbents
- End of April – Final selection of TIs for 2027 deacons
- Early May – Training Incumbent Training Programme
- Late May – Matching conversations with bishops
Early Summer 2026
- 1 June – Ordinands and prospective TIs contacted with suggested matches
What We’re Looking For in a Training Incumbent
Training Incumbents play a vital part in forming new priests for a younger, more diverse, mixed‑ecology Church. They model a life of prayer, presence, wisdom, inclusion and mission, and they co-create with their curate a learning partnership rooted in trust.
Key Characteristics
- A healthy, reflective, prayer‑shaped priestly life
- Collaborative, empowering leadership
- Commitment to conscious inclusion and safeguarding
- Capacity to supervise, listen, question and encourage
- Imagination for mission within and beyond the parish
- Ability to offer real opportunities for leadership, learning and growth
- A parish culture that can welcome, support and stretch a curate
A detailed description of the role, expectations and person specification is included in the Role Description.
Training and Support for TIs
Prospective TIs will receive:
- A dedicated TI training programme
- Opportunities for ongoing formation, including:
- Transforming Conversations course
- Action Learning Sets
- Reflective practice gatherings
- Conscious inclusion and safeguarding development
- Regular support from the IME2 Officer, Mission & Ministry team, and peers
We want this to be life-giving leadership—not an isolated task.
How to Apply
- Download and complete the TI Application Form.
- Ensure your PCC/benefice leadership is aware and supportive.
- Submit the form by Monday 23 February.
- Shortlisting and interviews will follow in March.
If you are unsure whether to apply, or would value a conversation first, please get in touch.
Required actions and paperwork
To apply to serve as a Training Incumbent for curacies beginning in 2027, you will need to complete the key steps and documentation provided below. Full details of the expectations, timeline, and discernment process are outlined on the diocesan *Title Posts* page. [stalbansdiocese.org]
- Read the Training Incumbent Role Description
This outlines the purpose, expectations and responsibilities of Training Incumbents within the renewed IME2 framework.
Training Incumbent Role Description - Complete the Training Incumbent Application Form
Use this form to formally express your interest in becoming a Training Incumbent. Applications open February 2026 for curacies beginning after ordination in summer 2027.
Training Incumbent Application Form - Review the 2026 Process Timeline
A detailed timeline explains the stages of discernment, interviews, and confirmation of ‘Prospective TI’ status, which lasts for three years.
- Contact the Mission & Ministry Team if Needed
Alternative formats of documents or further guidance are available from the diocesan team supporting the process.