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discipleship training school

what is DTS?

Our Discipleship Training School (10802NAT – Certificate III in Discipleship) gives you the opportunity to set aside five and a half months of your life to grow closer to God while giving you the opportunity to put your faith into action. After 13 weeks of training and discipleship at our campus in Townsville, Australia, we take you on nine weeks of outreach where you will have the opportunity to be a part of strengthening lives, communities, and nations. 

Encounter God

The DTS is a journey of the heart! It’s a great opportunity to get away from the noise and distractions of life and set aside time to consider your calling; to find peace and purpose, to explore what you believe in a healthy environment, to be restored and engage with God’s heart for you and the world around you.

Change Lives

Our outreaches and training programs are designed to mobilise and equip you to be a part of transforming lives and strengthening communities while utilising your unique set of skills and passion.

Travel

There is something about getting out of your usual environment that changes your perspective. During DTS you will travel to new places and experience new cultures. You will also be serving alongside other YWAM volunteers from around the world.

What will you learn

The DTS includes 13 weeks of transformational teaching that is delivered in a way that is dynamic and practical. A different topic is covered every week, delivered by a variety of experienced speakers, giving you the opportunity to dive deeper in your faith. Topics may include hearing God’s voice, identity, missions, relationships, bible study, nature and character of God, and more.

You will also be placed in a small group to help you further unpack your training with others on a weekly basis. Further to this, you will be matched with a mentor who will catch up with you regularly to check in on your faith journey.

To help you further apply and process what you are learning, you will also be required to complete homework and assessments.

This is so much more than just a course – you will have the opportunity to connect with God and others in a very real and personal way.
Develop teamwork skills
Make friends from all over the world
Dynamic & practical teaching
Mentoring

Watch a day in the life of a DTS student

Where will you live?

Townsville is located in tropical North Queensland near the top of Australia. Right off our coast is the Great Barrier Reef and Magnetic Island (home to the biggest Koala colony in Australia!)

Our campus is located in Townsville’s city centre, close to the beach, cafes, and shops. Our campus includes multiple classrooms, wireless internet access, café, chapel, commercial kitchen, and a beautiful courtyard right in the centre of it all where you can enjoy our tropical setting.

Where will you go on outreach?

Australia & Papua New Guinea

We believe that every human being is designed to live a full and abundant life. Our vision is to see each area of society thriving in communities throughout Papua New Guinea and Australia. Your DTS outreach will be so much more than just a great experience, you will be contributing toward lasting change in Australia, Papua New Guinea and beyond.

Working in team

Once you start the outreach portion of your DTS, you’ll be placed in a team with 8 to 12 other people, including your outreach leaders. You will participate in 9 weeks of outreach with your team. This is a special time of bonding and creating memories together as you serve in your outreach locations.

Dates & Costs

january

Youth Ministries

Global Health

Challenge: High Ropes

28 January – 28 June 2024

26 January – 27 June 2025

july

Reef to Outback

Youth Ministries

Global Health

14 July – 13 December 2024

13 July – 12 December 2025

october

Media & Radio

Youth Ministries

Global Health

13 October, 2024 – 14 March, 2025

19 October, 2025 – 20 March 2026

Cost

$6,490AUD* course fee
$1000 – $1800AUD outreach travel expenses

Your course fee includes 13 weeks of missions training and 9 weeks of outreach. The training includes all of your meals, accommodation, wifi, laundry facilities, airport transfers, an Australian wildlife experience (meet a koala and feed kangaroos!) and use of our campus facilities including library, computers, lecture rooms, chapel, courtyard and cafe – right in the heart of the city, close to the beach, restaurants and shops. Your outreach includes all of your meals, accommodation, outreach shirt, visa (if required) and field supplies.

Your outreach travel expenses will cover variable costs such as flights, ferries, busses, etc.

*Does not include travel costs to and from Townsville, student visa, health insurance and immunisations.

Meet someone who has done a DTS

Andrew

“From my first day here I’ve felt at home. Amazing hospitality, amazing vision, tangible growth, tangible impact, I Love it.”

– Andrew

Angelica

“An adventure filled with young people seeking a bigger vision of partnering with God in reaching the nation’s with His love. I learned so much about God, myself, and others. I recommend to anyone seeking life to serve, grow, and have loads of fun with lifelong friendship you’ll build in the process!”

– Angelica

Timmy

“This place is a welcoming community who helps each individual feel valued and grow in their personal journeys with God.”

– Timmy

Andy

“I’ve had an amazing time with YWAM Townsville! They really see each individual and make everyone feel valued, and it has been so cool to see everyone grow so much in their relationship with God!”

– Andy

Azariah

“YWAM Townsville has an incredible team of staff who help make your experience a ton of fun! YWAM has taught me so much over the last 5 months and has challenged and stretched me. I now have incredible memories and stories that will last a life time!”

– Azariah

Course Details

Scholarships

YWAM Townsville offers scholarships to eligible students. Generally, scholarships are given to students from developing nations who wouldn’t be able to access this training without the assistance.

Scholarships will only cover a portion of the course fees. Our team offers fundraising ideas and will join you in prayer as you raise support.

We can send you a scholarship application form on request. Once the form is completed and returned to us, we will review it and prayerfully make a decision.

Occasionally YWAM Townsville offers promotions or discounts, which are publicised on our website and/or social media. A student will not be given a scholarship and a promotion for the same course.

Accreditation
10802NAT Certificate III in Discipleship
DSPREL001 – Develop relationship with God

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to successfully respond to the truth
that God makes Himself known to all people and to God’s grace in initiating relationship. It requires the ability to gain
life-changing understanding of who God is and how He communicates through the Bible, prayer, and worship in
order to adjust beliefs and behaviours.

DSPDCC002 – Develop Christian Character

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to make responsible decisions that
bring joy to God and glorify Him in response to God’s holiness, lordship and love. It requires the ability to live in right
relationship with God and others. It also requires the ability to recognise Jesus’ authority and respond in surrender
and dependence in all areas of life.

DSPYWM003 – Contribute to a Youth With a Mission community

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to successfully contribute to an
international, apostolic missions community of Youth With A Mission. It requires the ability to understand Youth With
A Mission’s purpose, beliefs and values to make a positive contribution to the community. It also requires the ability
to live in right relationship with God, authorities and others.

DSPSPA004 – Practice spiritual authority

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to exercise the authority every
believer has to make a significant contribution for spiritual breakthrough. It requires the ability to walk in spiritual
authority through intercession, worship and strategic prayer. It also requires the ability to recognise the activity and
influence of Satan and the authority given to every believer through Jesus Christ.

DSPEVA005 – Contribute to evangelism

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to successfully proclaim the truth that
God pursues the lost and desires all to be saved through Jesus Christ. It requires the ability to communicate God’s
truth in a way that demonstrates His character. It also requires the ability to show God’s love through acts of
compassion.

DSPPCM006 – Participate in a Christian missions outreach team

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to make a meaningful contribution
towards the completion of the Great Commission through serving in a Christian missions team. It requires the ability
to engage in the preparation of and participation in team activities in a variety of settings. It also requires the ability
to adjust to another culture and review outreach activities.

Course Work

The Discipleship Training School is a combination of heart revelation and head knowledge with an
emphasis in practical application. There is also a component of written course work which helps students
understanding reach a deeper level as processing and application takes place. Our assessments utilise a
range of methods including: journals, workbooks, book reports, outreach reports, self-assessment
checklists and supervisor reports. The DTS is a holistic in nature and units of competency are delivered
concurrently enabling you to develop your skills, knowledge and character.

* for recognition of prior learning/course credit, please see the Staff and Student Handbook.

Austudy, Abstudy and Youth student allowance is available for Australian applicants.

Prerequisites

Applicants need to have graduated High School or equivalent and have a sense of call to Christian Missions.

International Students

When overseas students apply, proficiency in English will be specifically assessed. Offers of placement in a course will include any applicable requirements for English language proficiency. Copies of documents, or telephone interviews will be used to verify information provided by students on language proficiency. Bridging courses will be recommended where these are deemed necessary.

International students on student visas are required to maintain satisfactory academic progress and attendance to meet the requirements of the student visa.

YWAM Townsville is bound by the National Code of Practice for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students. The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations regulates the education and training sector’s involvement with overseas students studying in Australia on student visas. It does this through the Education Services for Overseas Students legislative framework. This protects Australia’s reputation for delivering quality education services and the interests of overseas students, by setting minimum standards and providing tuition and financial assurance.

The legislation mandates a nationally consistent approach to registering education providers so that the quality of the tuition, and care of students, remains high. The professionalism and integrity of the industry is further strengthened by the ESOS legislation’s interface with immigration law. This imposes visa related reporting requirements on both students and providers. A simple explanation of the framework is the ESOS Student Fact Sheet.

Frequently asked questions

Which visa do I apply for?

The visa process is something we walk you through nearer the time if you are offered a place on your course. Please do not start your visa process before talking with one of our team members on the phone.

Are there any extra fees I need to be aware of?

You need to budget the following:

  • Flights to get to Townsville and back
  • Immunisations
  • Visa and Insurance are extra to course costs (please note that any other visa onshore may include extra fees)
  • Personal expenses like snacks, toiletries, mosquito repellant
  • Extra medical expenses
Do I need a return plane ticket?

Once you’ve paid for your course, you need to budget for your flights to get to Townsville and back. You do not necessarily need a return ticket and can enter Australia without one.  Some students like to travel after the course, but make sure you save enough to purchase a ticket home at the end of your course.

Do I need Health Insurance?

All overseas students on a Student Visa must have health insurance, it is a requirement for your visa. You can only be covered by Medibank Overseas Student Health Cover on your Student Visa which we will purchase on your behalf once you have paid your deposit. The only exceptions to this are students from Norway, Belgium and some Swedish students. Please see the National Department of Health website for more details. If you are from Australia or New Zealand you will not be on a visa and will not need to purchase Overseas Student Health Cover.

What happens after DTS?

DTS is an incredible time of transformation where you will have opportunity to process many things about your life. After the DTS, some people may decide to return home and get involved in their local communities, others may decide to do further study, or work with other missions organisations, some may decide to stay on with YWAM in Townsville, or at another location.

If you find you’d like to stay on with YWAM Townsville, you will have the option of joining our two-year staff internship program. During this program you will receive further mentoring and hands-on experience. You will also have the option of doing one (or more!) of our vocational training courses. This training can be completed at your own pace, online – matched with practical application during your staff placement.  

Do you have DTS for families?

Yes! We love having families in missions. If you are wanting to do DTS as a family then please contact us and we would love to chat! There will be lots to talk about, depending on the size of your family, ages of your children and heart for missions. We would encourage you to apply first and we will journey with you through your application.

At this point we do not have a specific family DTS cost, each spouse pays the full DTS fees. Food and accommodation is discounted for children.

How old do you have to be for DTS?

You must be 18 years old to do a DTS. If you are 17 when you apply for DTS but turn 18 in the first few weeks then it might be possible, please get in touch with us about this. Most of our DTS options are for up to 35 years of age, but if you older, feel free to contact us!

Is there a beach?

Yes! And it’s a 15 minute walk from the campus 🙂

Can I work whilst I do my DTS?

DTS is a full-time course which means you’re going to be pretty busy! You’ll have things on in the morning, afternoons and most evenings, as well as school activities at the weekend. Your visa may have limited working conditions.

I am a parent and have some questions, can I talk with someone on the phone?

Yes of course, please go to our Contact Us page and either give us a call or an email, we would love to chat.

Looking for more info?

Apply Now

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Discipleship Training School - Townsville Campus

Our Discipleship Training School (DTS) gives you the opportunity to set aside five and a half months of your life to grow in your faith while serving the world around you. After 13 weeks of training and discipleship at our campus in Townsville, Australia, we take you on nine weeks of cross-cultural outreach. The DTS is a life-changing experience! 

10802NAT - Certificate III in Discipleship 

Dates
  • 28 January - 28 June, 2024
  • 14 July - 13 December, 2024
  • 13 October, 2024 - 14 March, 2025
  • 26 January - 27 June, 2025
  • 13 July - 12 December, 2025
  • 19 October, 2025 - 20 March 2026

Apply Now

Learn More

Discipleship Training School - Port Moresby Campus, Papua New Guinea

The DTS will run from our satellite campus in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The DTS will include a unique combination of discipleship, hands-on missions experience during both lectures and outreach, and the opportunity to make history as we establish a new campus in Port Moresby for generations to come.

Dates
  • 28 January - 28 June, 2024
  • 14 July - 13 December, 2024
  • 26 January - 27 June, 2025
  • 13 July - 12 December, 2025

 

Apply Townsville

Apply Port Moresby

Introduction to Global Health & Development

Be immersed in a powerful combination of essential basic healthcare knowledge and community development training, with a focus on preventing illness, promoting holistic wellbeing, and empowering communities to develop their strengths.

Townsville Campus

To be announced

Port Moresby Campus
  • 14 July - 13 December, 2024
  • 13 July - 12 December, 2025
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HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site 

HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site 

HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

 

Apply Now

Learn More

Global Health & Development Gap Year

Our Global Health & Development Gap Year calls those whose heart beats to see communities thriving - physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. The Global Health & Development Gap Year is designed for both those that have experience in the health / community development industry, and for those who are starting out on their journey of healthcare in missions.

10802NAT - Certificate III in Discipleship

HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site

HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

Dates

28 January - 13 December 2024

26 January - 12 December 2025

 

Apply Now

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Discipleship Bible School

During the course, you will have an opportunity to dig deep into the Bible, reading through all 66 books, gaining an overall perspective of God’s story. You will learn techniques for effective Bible study, and your speakers will help unlock the Bible’s fascinating content.

You will also be taught on topics. For example – you will look at Worldview and Origins as you study through Genesis, Exodus, and Job. Or you might look at Leadership and Worship as you study the life of David in 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Chronicles, and the Psalms. Each book is filled with insights to be discovered!

Dates

28 January - 28 June 2024

26 January - 27 June 2025

Apply Now

Learn More

Introduction to Radio & Media

Good communication is essential for strong relationships, healthy families, and communities! Our mission is to train and equip effective communicators to share good news and influence positive community growth.

CUA31020 Certificate III in Screen and Media

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All Courses

Our wide range of registered training courses are designed to help equip you for your field of passion.

We combine elements of informal, formal, and non-formal education to not only impart knowledge and skill, but also good character, important life skills, and the motivation to serve and invest into the lives of others.

Learn more about our approach to training

Learn More (Townsville campus)

Learn More (Port Moresby Campus)

Join YWAM Staff

Our volunteer staff team is a diverse mix of different nationalities, ages, skills, giftings, and backgrounds. Their dedication and passion makes what we do possible and we are always looking to expand our team!

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Pathways with YWAM

We have a range of pathways within our training and ministry that allows you to specialise in your area and grow your skillsets. From Hospitality to Global Health you can upskill yourself while impacting those around you

 


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Resources
Joining us for a Discipleship Training School (DTS) or Gap Year with us soon? We have compiled a few resources to help prepare you for the amazing journey that’s ahead!

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For Parents
Do you have a child that is interested in a YWAM DTS or Gap Year? We have created some resources for you as your child navigates their YWAM experience. 
Canvas Online Training

Login to complete your course homework here

 


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YWAM Precinct

Our recently developed YWAM Precinct located in Townsville’s CBD is the perfect hub for youth to find belonging and empowerment. A high, medium and low ropes course, brand new cafe, and multi-purpose warehouse space for seminars and other activities allows youth the opportunity to flourish through adventure based learning.

 

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Youth Ambassadors

As a Youth Ambassador you will have the opportunity to lead your peers and the wider community in helping to support the work of YWAM Medical Ships in Papua New Guinea.

 

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Work Experience

We offer the opportunity for students to complete their work experience at our city campus in Townsville. This unique opportunity gives students the ability to not only explore a future career pathway, but also get a taste of working with a local charity that is dedicated to serving the community.

 

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Schools & Youth Leaders

We know that really quality, committed youth workers, teachers and families are some of the best things young people can have in their formative years. Our hope is to make your job a little bit easier by offering adventure based learning, mentoring resources, leadership and training pathways, and service based learning opportunities for youth. 

 

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Transitional Accommodation

YWAM operates a home in Townsville for at-risk youth. YWAM receives tenant referrals from local collaborating youth support organizations.

 

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Vision & Approach

We have the hope to create a safe environment for the youth of Townsville to be, believing everyone has the right to hope for an abundant and healthy life physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. YWAM works in partnership and by invitation through Australia and Papua New Guinea.

 

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School Seminars

Our school seminar programs are designed to empower and motivate youth to live full and productive lives. Book these engaging and interactive seminars to strengthen your young people. 

 

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Youth Adventures

Youth Adventures is the ultimate service based learning opportunity for young people. We do all the work for your school or youth group so you can do the mission!

 

Pre-Register for Impact Summer 2024

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Impact Summer

Make an Impact during your Summer as you engage in epic adventure, learning and serving. 

Gain valuable skills through hands-on learning experiences at The Stable and the new YWAM Precinct, complete with hiropes and rock climbing wall.

 

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VET in Schools

Vocational education is one of the best ways for young people to explore their passions and get equipped. We offer several registered training programs for youth. In addition to all of the expected elements of a training program, our courses have an emphasis on building good character and the soft skills needed to be employable, while also giving students the chance to practice their skills within our organisation. 

 


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Adventure Based Learning
Adventure based learning programs are complete with a high, medium, and low ropes course, cafe, and multi-purpose youth space to run programs with a ‘learn by doing’ and ‘challenge by choice’ philosophy.
 

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Precinct Cafe

Help build healthy lives and communities in Australia and Papua New Guinea while dining at the YWAM Precinct Cafe

YWAM Precinct Cafe is a not-for-profit cafe located at 312 Walker Street in Townsville’s CBD.

 


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Dental Trailer

YWAM Medical Ships is now operating a Dental Trailer in collaboration with key stakeholders in Port Moresby with the purpose of providing dental services, training opportunities, and health education to schools in the National Capital District.

Apply Now

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Small Boat Patrol Outreaches

YWAM Medical Ships is collaborating with key stakeholders in the nation by utilising small boats to bring health and training services right to the doorstep of those who need it most. These patrols have a specific focus on empowering the youth of communities to live healthy lives to contribute to a healthy nation.

Register Your Interest

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Ship Outreaches

YWAM Medical Ships - Australia & PNG has been operating medical and training vessels in PNG since 2010.

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Our Footprint

Delivering basic services in Papua New Guinea (PNG) poses enormous challenges with 84 percent of the population living in remote, rural areas.

See annual reports

Annual Reports

Read or download our annual reports. 

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Advocate

Join the YWAM Medical Ships team by becoming a Community Ambassador or Youth Ambassador in your local community.

Apply Now (Townsville Campus)
Apply Now  (Port Moresby Campus)
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Mission Build
Mission Building is a volunteer program that gives you the opportunity to experience life at our campus all while supporting our work in Australia and PNG. Join us for two weeks to three months at a time that suits you!
 
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Youth Adventures
Youth Adventures is the ultimate service based learning opportunity for young people. We do all the work for your school or youth group so you can do the mission!
 

Donate / Pay Here
Townsville City Campus - DTS, Volunteer, Donation
Support our community service projects and youth work in North Queensland by giving a donation to the YWAM Townsville City Campus. The campus also serves as the headquarters for the YWAM Training and Medical Ship, 99.9 Live FM, all training activities, youth work, and a home-base for all of our volunteer staff and students.
  • DTS Fees
  • Volunteer Fees
  • Tax-Deductible Donations
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Donate to support the work in Papua New Guinea
Join us in the vision of building healthy lives and communities for a healthy Papua New Guinea by giving a tax deductible donation that has the power to change lives!
Pay Now
Ship Outreaches, Dental Trailer Outreaches, and more!

Joining us on outreach in Papua New Guinea soon? We are looking forward to having you! Your volunteer fees can be paid online on this page

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YWAM Medical Ships - Port Moresby Campus

Payments are in Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK) currency. Volunteer payments, donations, and projects in Port Moresby, PNG.

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Support Our Volunteers
All of our staff are full-time, self-funded volunteers, including our Managing Director! Each of our volunteers raise their own financial support outside of the organisation. This includes essential living expenses, outreach costs, and travel expenses.
Our staff include accountants, cooks, administrators, mariners, outreach leaders, medical personnel, trainers, housekeepers, program developers, communications officers, youth workers, and so many more! It truly does take a dedicated and diverse team to make what we do possibl

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Leave A Gift

Leaving a gift to YWAM in your will is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.

Take Me There!
Charity Gift Shop

Join us in the vision of supporting healthy villages in Papua New Guinea by giving a tax-deductible donation that has the power to change lives!