Martyn Lloyd-Jones rejected the secular academic model of pastoral training in other colleges and universities. Instead, his was a clear focus on the goal of gospel-centred teaching and training, which is to produce preachers and pastors equipped for church ministry in independent and non-conformist contexts. We remain faithful to that vision.

The ethos of the Seminary is not primarily academic, but vocational. The only qualification for student entry is a credible call to ministry. The teaching is given by those with preaching and pastoral experience so that every class has a focus on application to ministry. Over the years the Seminary has trained men from a wide range of backgrounds, both in the UK and from overseas. There has been a notable diversity of denominational background, nationality, culture, age and ethnicity.

Our primary course of study is the Pastoral Training course – a well-rounded programme providing a strong foundation for ministry which is regarded as ‘MDiv equivalent’ for students going on to take the ThM degree at PRTS. The course is rigorous, including a requirement to learn Biblical languages. In recent years other courses have been added such as Flourish to equip women ministering to women, and Plant for those engaged in church planting and revitalisation. The Pastors’ Academy, led by Dr Garry Williams, provides study opportunities (including a ThM programme) and pastoral support for those already in ministry.