discipleship training centre
Gap Year (DTC)
A discipleship gap year for young adults preparing to make a difference in their community, nation and the world.
what is the DTC?
Know God. Grow in Him. Show His love.
Word of Life’s gap year program gives students the opportunity to experience intentional discipleship and evangelistic mission around regional NSW, interstate and overseas, through our outreach programs and local church partnerships.
Missional experience
Go deeper with God so you know how to shape your life and future around Jesus. Explore God’s Word through discussion, university study and personal Bible reading. We learn in community and look closely at biblical theology, evangelism, cross-cultural mission, practical ministry skills and more.
Community
Connect with like-minded school leavers and young adults who are passionate about Jesus, and enjoy fellowship with Christians from around the country and the world.
Get moving
Grow in your knowledge of God, your service of His people and your understanding of yourself. Develop practical ministry skills and take your place in God’s global mission as a leader among leaders.
get equipped
Study while you serve
In partnership with the Australian College of Christian Studies (ACCS), students can complete a one-year diploma or continue to a three-year full-time bachelor’s degree in ministry, theology or counselling.
Course details are on the ACCS website.
Frequently asked questions
How many people join the gap year each year?
It varies. Usually around three to five new students, plus those who stay on the team. Some students are in their second or third year of study.
Is there any HECS debt?
Yes. Word of Life partners with a college, ACCS, that provides the accredited courses. Study details are on the ACCS website.
Are costs paid monthly or up front?
Monthly. There is a $250 deposit when you register.
Which days does the program run?
Tuesday to Friday. Monday is a day off or study day. The schedule stays the same each week unless we’re travelling.
Are there holidays?
Yes. Holidays follow the ACCS calendar, with some extra breaks around ministry commitments. Students do have set breaks.
Can I have a part-time or casual job?
Yes, on weekends and some evenings. Ministry trips still come first, so please talk with the director before taking on a job.
Do students go home on weekends?
Not usually. It depends on where your family lives. You can visit for special family occasions, like birthdays, with the director’s permission.
Is there an overseas mission trip?
Yes. Student fees cover all national ministry trips; international trips cost extra.
What about meals?
Dinner is provided Tuesday to Thursday, and lunch on Friday (we often travel on Friday afternoons). You’ll make your own breakfast and lunch. Each house has a kitchen and living area, and there’s a Woolworths a three-minute drive away.
What is the accommodation like?
Each student has their own room, and there’s a driveway to park your car.
Is the study nationally recognised?
Yes. The diploma and bachelor’s courses are accredited through ACCS. The DTC program itself is not an accredited course, but diploma subjects count as the first year of a degree if you continue studying.
How close is the beach?
About a 10-minute drive.
ready to take the next step?
Ask us anything
To register your interest or ask a question, contact the office. Parents and caregivers are welcome to get in touch too.
Give to the DTC Gap Year Scholarship
Help a young adult take a year to be discipled and trained for ministry.