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What is Foundations Internship?
Foundations Internship is a program which will give all PYV leaders basic training in biblical youth ministry. It has been designed not only to be a more thorough preparation for participation in PYV’s camping ministry, but also to equip you as a leader in your local church’s youth ministry.
Intended to resource people for youth ministry in their local church, elements of it are offered in partnership with the PTC - including several units of the Australian College of Theology "Certificate in Theology".The Internship begins on PYV Summer Camp continues for six months' in your local church's youth ministry, and concludes on PYV Winter Camp.
What does it involve?
Foundations Internship is 6 months’ worth of participation. It involves 5 basic components:
- Summer Camp – Intensive stream: During Summer Camp (27th Dec - 1st Jan), Foundations Interns will complete an Australian College of Theology course in either OT, NT or Christian Belief. In addition to this there will be a two-hour Ministry skills session each day of camp, where leaders will learn about personal devotions, how to write a small group study, how to give an evangelistic talk as well as mentoring and discipleship.
- Ministry Study – Distance learning: Interns will complete one subject on practical ministry. We recommend that this is one of the “Cafe Theologica” distance CDs. Alternatively, leaders may apply to attend equivalent training such as a PTC short course.
- Lay Ministries Field Education – Leaders will complete 50 hours of youth ministry in their home church. This will include at least 5 hours reflecting and praying with a local church mentor.
- Rain24 weekend – On this weekend (like Train 24, but winter-style!) leaders will learn some of the specifics of being part of PYV’s team as they prepare for leading on Winter Camp.
- Winter Camp – Leaders will assist with leading a small group on either Senior or Junior Camp. A graduation & commissioning service will be held during camp to celebrate the completion of the internship.
Do I have to do exams?
No, all of the assessment is optional. Foundations interns have the opportunity to complete half of the requirements for a nationally recognised Certificate in Theology. However, this assessment is not required in order to be a PYV leader.
Am I too busy?
The time commitment required by the Internship will depend on a number of factors, such as the amount of assessment that you do, and the level of involvement you have in your local church. The absolute minimum would be about 65 hours (in addition to the camps and training weekends). Over six months, this is about 2.5 hours per week, including your involvement in your local youth ministry.
On the other hand, to do all the assessment, you could expect to spend 2 hours per week in addition to your local church youth ministry.
What if I’ve already...?
We won’t insist that Interns repeat training that they have done previously. Talk to the PYV Youth Worker about which elements of Foundations Internship will be essential to your development in youth ministry.
Does it cost?
Interns will pay the regular fee for Summer Camp, and the leaders fee for Winter Camp. All assessment will be paid for by the leaders’ home church.
How do I apply?
All interns must be approved by both PYV and their local church. Click on the link below to begin the application process.
If you are not already a PYV leader:
Go to to www.pyv.org.au, click on “internship application.”
Please note that applications should be received by October 31st to allow time before Summer Camp for PYV to liaise with local church sessions before you commence the Foundations Internship.
For answers to more questions about Foundations Internship, please email: training@pyv.org.au .