9 December 2023

William Booth College: Not just for cadets

Major Jo Moir

A photo of the William Booth College tower from within the grounds.

Major Jo Moir (THQ) explains how restructures at William Booth College cement it as a place of learning for everyone.

You would be forgiven for assuming that William Booth College (WBC) is only for cadets training to be officers. It is still often lovingly referred to as the ‘training college’ and even that fountain of all knowledge Wikipedia confidently lists it as a 1929 Grade II listed building that provides Salvation Army officer training.

But for many years WBC has been much more than that. It is a centre for learning for the entire territory, offering courses that enable The Salvation Army’s employees, lay spiritual leaders and, yes, cadets to gain the knowledge and experience they need to flourish in ministry and service.

‘We’ve received a lovely welcome and been so supported. The course has been invaluable for us in growing as leaders but also in reflecting and implementing the learning as we continue to join in with God’s mission in our community.’
Pioneer Leaders Bethany and Jonathan Munn, Faversham

‘I loved the community aspect of life at WBC and the space provided to meet and form friendships with people that will last a lifetime. In my session, there was definitely a sense of family where we supported each other with whatever was needed, ensuring that everyone felt valued and included.’
Lieutenant Patsy Attwood, Sudbury

‘As the ever-changing societal landscape unfolds, my thoughts about life as a Christian are challenged. Having the right knowledge and methods to gracefully accept and face these challenges has become more and more evident through life in corps ministry. Entering a theology degree course that is handled by experienced officers is a wonderful way to engage with my journey.’
Captain Scott Garman, Glasgow City Centre

‘The impact of my work is dependent upon the quality of relationships that I establish. Developing my knowledge through deep self-reflection and self-awareness through this course has been invaluable.’
Washington Gwenzi, Regional Learning and Development Officer

Principal Lieut-Colonel Judith Payne explains: ‘WBC exists to meet the learning and development needs of the territory, to be involved in mission and provide opportunities for growth that we might display the glory of Jesus.’

To be prepared for this, WBC has gone through a significant restructuring this year, resulting in eight new units and a newly formed leadership team, comprising officers and employees who are committed to collaborative working practices to love God and love others in all they do. The Learning and Development team is reimagining how they will provide mandatory and development-focused training to employees and volunteers.

Cadet training is changing too: this year sees the introduction of longer first-year corps training placements and, in the longer term, considering more flexible options. A new competency framework is also being developed to benefit longterm officer and employed leadership development.

A key verse of Scripture during this process has been Isaiah 43:19: ‘See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?’

The leadership team at WBC have a clear vision and passion for the future and these are exciting days at Champion Park – not just for cadets but for everyone.