Initial Continuing Ministry Education (ICME)

In the first three years of ordained ministry, clergy are involved in a programme of ICME. In some dioceses this is known as IME 4-7. The ICME programme is designed to help stipendiary curates to prepare for taking on the responsibility of an incumbent level post by helping them to grow and develop their gifts, building on the work done in their training at theological college or course.

The programme consists of ministry training days spread throughout the year. Curates in their deacon year generally meet separately from those in years two and three of the programme, but there are always at least two events a year which all curates attend.

The Handbook for Training Incumbents and Curates (latest revision April 2007) provides a useful framework for ICME training.

Curates can enrol with the School of Theology and Ministry Studies to work for academic awards at either undergraduate or postgraduate level.