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10899NAT  Certificate IV in Christian Missions

The Purpose and Leadership Development is an internship with a difference! This is a two-year, hands on course that trains you in the core aspects of being a full-time volunteer with YWAM anywhere in the world. The skills and knowledge you will gain during this two year period will apply to much more than just the missions context; they can be transferred to your next job, ministry opportunity, or further study. 

During the course you will work as a full time volunteer staff member with us. While you may spend a portion of your two years in Papua New Guinea and other areas in North Queensland, your home base will be our campus in Townsville or Port Moresby, PNG.

The Purpose and Leadership Development gives you the opportunity to gain ministry skills and experience all while empowering you to help build healthy lives, communities, and nations in a variety of expressions.

The prerequisite for this course is a YWAM Discipleship Training School (DTS).

 

What you will learn

During the course you will have weekly input times (2 hours per week) with a different module covered every quarter including:

  • Vision and Communication
  • Developing a Support Base
  • Community Engagement
  • The Book That Transforms Nations
  • Effective Ministry

In addition to the core modules, elective modules are offered every quarter on topics such as Bible study, biblical counsel and prayer, developing teaching, and effective team dynamics. Elective modules are designed to help align your training with your passions and long-term goals. 

In addition to what you will learn in the classroom, you will also attain practical skills related to the ministry area that you are placed in, as well as a range of soft skills, such as team work, leadership, time management, work ethic, problem solving, adaptability, resilience, and so much more!

Ministry roles

During your Purpose and Leadership Development, we do our best to match your passions and any prior training and experience you might have with a ministry area that is most suitable for you. 

Our ministry areas include:

  • Accounts
  • Director’s Office
  • Early Learning
  • Global Healthcare School Leadership Team
  • Housing
  • Media and Communication
  • Property Development
  • Venue Management
  • 99.9 Live FM (we have a community radio station right on campus!) 
  • Community Life
  • Discipleship Training School Leadership Team
  • Food Services
  • Guest Services
  • Marine
  • Medical
  • Training
  • Youth Ministry

Most students on the Purpose and Leadership Development will have the opportunity to participate in a range of roles and projects during the two years, including a mix of outreach opportunities and mission support roles.

Mission Pathways

Involvement with us doesn’t stop with the Introduction to Purpose and Leadership Development! During the course you will have the option of enrolling in additional registered training that is designed to help you further hone in on an area you would like to specialise in. 

You will also have the opportunity to extend your time with us after the Introduction to Purpose and Leadership Development, giving you the opportunity to further track toward leadership roles and pioneering new initiatives. 

Our current mission pathways options include:

Dates and cost

january 

14 Jan 2024 – 9 Jan 2026


april

31 March 2024 – 27 March 2026


july

30 June 2024 – 26 June 2026


september

8 Oct 2023 – 3 Oct 2025
29 Sept 2024 – 25 Sept 2026


Cost

Course fee: $1,500 AUD

Accommodation: $250 AUD/month (standard dormitory room). You may have the option to upgrade your accommodation to a shared apartment for an additional cost. 

Campus meals: 7.50 AUD/day. You will also have the option of purchasing and preparing your own meals. 

Additional costs: Travel costs to and from Townsville, student visa, health insurance, and other personal expenses.

Reviews

Lloyd

“The Purpose and Leadership Development course helped me create foundations that I hope to use for the rest of my life! It was both practical and challenging which meant it wasn’t only good knowledge which I was learning from my leaders and speakers but I could see it clearly strengthen my character.”

– Lloyd

Candi

“I cannot believe the things that God has allowed me to be a part of while doing my Purpose and Leadership Development course at YWAM MS. I was able to mentor others, take teams on outreach to Papua New Guinea, and be a part of pioneering new programs and ministries in both Australia and Papua New Guinea. YWAM MS is training up young people to not only grow closer to God and better their own lives, but also to be people with strong values and character who are influencing nations and careers! I was able to both give and receive such training during the Purpose and Leadership Development course.”

– Candi

Emily

“Before the Purpose and Leadership Development course, I desperately wanted to discover my gifts or passions. I wanted to find some direction in my life that would bring me joy and purpose, but I had no idea where to start. Through this course, I was able to work in a variety of areas on campus and lead a few teams to Papua New Guinea. Through all that I was apart of and through all of the incredible people I’ve journeyed with, I discovered what makes me come alive and what I want to invest in! It has slowly shaped my dreams and guided me into the next few steps in my life. I’m so grateful for such a unique and special experience.”

– Emily

Cole

“The Purpose and Leadership Development course gave me the amazing opportunity to live and work with people from around the world. I led international teams of students to Papua New Guinea, and I was also a part of the Performing Arts and Celebration Team/ministry! I was invited to embrace such richness in cultures, celebrating through singing and dancing. What I’ve learned and the family I’ve gained through all of this will not be forgotten and I will take it with me through my life!”

– Cole

Zandreya

“The Purpose and Leadership Development course has helped me to develop my leadership skills and gain more perspective on what it means to be in missions! I have loved the different speakers and topics – it is an encouragement to understand more of how God works in every aspect of life, not just through the church or what we understand “missions” to be.”

– Zandreya

Course Details

Accreditation

10899NAT Certificate IV in Christian Missions

On completion of all 10 units of the course you will obtain a Certificate IV in Christian Missions.

Unit BSBCMM411 Make presentations

This unit covers the skills and knowledge required to prepare, deliver and review presentations for target audiences.

Unit NAT10899001 Maintain Bible knowledge

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge  required to develop biblical knowledge as part of ongoing spiritual growth  in Christian ministry.

Unit NAT10899006 Incorporate prayer and worship into ministry activities

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge  required to incorporate prayer and worship into Christian missions ministry.

Unit NAT10899007 Conduct evangelism

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge  required to share the gospel during Christian missions activities.

Unit NAT10899005 Address current issues from a Biblical perspective

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge  required to develop a response to current issues from a Biblical  perspective and then discuss this perspective.

Unit NAT10899003 Develop Ministry Support

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge  required to maintain a personal support network including regular financial  support as a self-funded missionary.

Unit NAT10899004 Reflect Jesus in lifestyle and ministry

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge  required to reflect Christ’s example in the missionary’s own life and  ministry.

Unit NAT10899003 Develop Ministry Support

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge  required to maintain a personal support network including regular financial  support as a self-funded missionary.

Unit NAT10899009 Serve in a Youth With a Mission Community

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge  required to work within the structure, ethos and context of a Christian  missions organisation and community.

Unit NAT10899008 Work effectively in a ministry team

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge  required to work in the context of a Christian missions team.

 

Course Work

A range of strategies will be used to assess the outcomes of the school. Journals, weekly reports, monthly action plans, book reports,and supervisor reports are all utilised as a part of this. Our training programs are holistic in nature, and the topics 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 are available for Australian applicants.

Prerequisite

Applicants need to have completed a Discipleship Training School and have a sense of call to Christian missions prior to acceptance into this course.

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 Easy Guide to ESOS.

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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

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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

 

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Learn More

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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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!
 

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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!
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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.

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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!