Aug 2006

Distance theological education in the Uniting Church is set to take a new direction following approval of a new business model for Coolamon College that will see it resource other parts of the church and allow them to adapt courses as needed on the ground.

In the face of increasing financial pressures on Coolamon, the August Standing Committee was presented with a range of options for its future, ranging from ceasing to offer higher education courses to closing the college altogether.

While acknowledging the value of the distance study offered by Coolamon for people without access to face to face learning, the Standing Committee recognised that without a change in focus, Coolamon would not remain viable.

The agreed way forward will see Coolamon collaborate with a range of existing providers to promote quality education and training with maximal flexibility for those lacking access to face-to-face teaching across Australia and beyond. It will act as a network of expertise in the distance delivery of theological education, as distinct from being a stand alone provider which it has been since its commencement.
It will continue to offer non-assessed, non-accredited group learning, competency based and VET sector accredited training and also allow them to be licensed to Synods and other parts of the church which can then adapt them as needed and deliver them locally.

It is hoped the new model will open opportunities for education to be offered in Uniting Church service agencies and that the flexibility it offers will help Presbyteries wanting to access education and training resources for people entering the new specified ministry of Pastor.

In his report to the Standing Committee, Coolamon Principal, Rev. Dr Lee Levett-Olson said it was it was important to note that Coolamon College was established as a justice strategy and remained an important vehicle for many people wanting to study within the Uniting Church.

“Coolamon was established to enable people of the Church, wherever they lived and whatever their circumstances, to access theological education. Over time the demand from Synod agencies and individuals for access to studies at all levels from certificate to doctorate has been responded to, so that students can now tailor their choices to their own individual needs using flexible learning approaches through the college, as well as work in congregational groups with a local facilitator according to their needs, with no assessment if that is their choice.”

Coolamon will commence negotiations with Synods in the coming months about implementing the new model and hopes to have it operational within 12 months.