GUIDELINES FOR EXTENDED STUDY LEAVE
Purpose
Extended Study Leave (sabbatical) is a period away from the parish or sphere of ministry, normally of three months duration. It should combine the following elements:
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study
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space for self and God
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refreshment
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development
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reflection
The overall orientation is that it should be a help to ministry, either directly (if the emphasis is on study or skills), or indirectly (if the emphasis is more on personal development).
Eligibility
Extended Study Leave shall normally be available, after consultation with the Bishop, the appropriate Archdeacon and the Director of CME, to stipendiary ministers between the ages of 39 and 59, providing:-
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they have completed 15 years of stipendiary ministry
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they have not had a similar period of extended study leave in the previous 10 years (a short period of study leave in that time may not disqualify)
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they have been at least three years in their present post
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they are not actively looking for a move during the planning period.
Factors to be considered
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family and personal circumstances
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the needs of the parish
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the deanery’s ability to cope with cover, etc.
Planning
The following elements need to be addressed satisfactorily during the planning process:
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clarification of aim (i.e. what is to be done, and why? who is initiating the proposal?)
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timing
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place(s)
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main topic of study
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other activity/ies
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tutor/supervisor
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reporting back
Finance
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A number of diocesan grants are available each year. It is hoped that parishes will also be prepared to make a contribution to the cost where an approved study leave scheme is likely to cost more than the basic grant. Personal contributions should also be considered, according to circumstances.
July 1999
