Optimum

• How will I raise funding for my gap year?
  You do not need to raise all of the money at once. We like you to have between £500-£1000 at the beginning of the year, and then we will work with you in how you raise the rest. But consider asking people in your church to support you throughout your year, both in funds and prayer! Ask your friends to save up all their 5p’s for a year, and there are many other such creative ideas.
• How much choice do I have about my placement?
  You choose the Track that best suits your expertise. If your interest is Youth and Community, we try to match your gifts with the different church placements we have on offer. We give you the opportunity to meet with the church and both the church and you can decide if you are suited.
• What spiritual support will I get?
  You meet weekly with the other volunteers where there is the chance to worship, share and pray together. In addition it is part of the role of the Optimum Project Manager to offer support for your spiritual well being. We encourage you to become part of a local church.
• Do I get any holiday?
  Yes!! However when this is taken is dependent on your Team’s commitments, so is worked out together during the year.
• Where will I live?
  You will live with a host family, that may be a couple, a family with young children, or a single person. You will have your own room and they provide all your meals. They will be a member of a local church and are keen to serve God through hospitality.
• Do I receive any pocket money?
  Yes £150 per month.
• Do I get a qualification from the training programme?
  For each individual module successfully completed, a Spurgeon’s College Certificate of Attendance and Participation will be awarded.  On successful completion of all 6 modules a Spurgeon’s Award will be given at the end of the course.
• What happens when I apply?
  When we receive your application form we will call you to arrange a time for an audition or an interview. We will do our best to find a time that works with your study or work commitments.
• Do I have to be a really good actor, musician, techie?
  You need to have some ability, but you don’t need to be the best actress, musician or techie in the world. We are equally keen for you to have a passion for Jesus and we aim to help you learn and grow throughout this year. If in doubt, gives us a call or send an email and have a chat.
• Do I have to have experience in youth work or schools work?
  Some experience helps, but mainly it’s important to have a heart for young people or children and it’s definitely important to have passion for Jesus! This year is all about sharing your faith.
• What if I want to do something but can’t commit to a whole year?
  Why not join one of our Summer Evangelism Teams for 2 weeks!

Years Ahead

• If my local church can not support me can I still join Years Ahead and be involved in my local area?
  Whilst it is most desirable for the church where you attend to be behind you, it may be possible to link you in with another local Baptist church who could make the best use of your giftings. Call Ian Bunce at the Eastern Baptist Association on 01362 391392.
• What if I'm not sure I would be suitable or able to manage the study?
  It is your heart to share your faith that is of paramount importance and we recognise that it may be years since you have done any form of study (if at all!). Don't panic, call us and we will listen to your concerns. Speak to Beth Powney on 01268 530531 or email beth@vizaviz.org.

• Will I be in a team with my mates?
  Unless you come on your own we will make sure you are in a team with someone you know.
• I’m a youth leader, can I come too?
  Each team needs leaders who will be responsible for their pastoral support. If you want to consider coming with your group we’d love to talk to you further.
• Can I come if I am 14?
  Yes, as long as your youth/church leader is happy and if you come with someone who is over 16.
• Will I know what to do?
  No! We’ll spend the first 3 days preparing and training you for the work you will do during the placement week. You won’t have to so anything you don’t want to.
• How can I raise the money?
  Every person coming on SET needs the support and prayers of their home church. When you ask for prayer support, why not ask for sponsorship too?