2 April 2026
Are you called to shape how Christian faith is understood and lived in diverse and changing contexts?
Whitley College is seeking a Lecturer in Practical Theology who will help shape how theology is lived, practiced, and embodied in real contexts. This is an opportunity to contribute to a learning community that is faithful to Scripture, deeply attentive to context, and engaged with the global Church.
At Whitley, theology is not abstract. It is lived out in churches, communities, and places where leadership, care, and witness are needed most. We are looking for a lecturer who can bring together rigorous scholarship, practical wisdom, and a passion for forming students for ministry and service.
You will join a collegial and creative faculty, contribute to a dynamic and intercultural learning environment, and play a key role in shaping the Practical Theology curriculum in partnership with the wider University of Divinity and the Partnership for Professional Practice.
If you are an educator, practitioner, and researcher committed to forming people for faithful and contextual ministry, we invite you to consider this role.
About the Role
Whitley College seeks to appoint a Lecturer in Practical Theology (0.8-1.0 EFT negotiable), to contribute to a high-quality and relevant theological curriculum, and to foster the development of Practical Theology for life and ministry.
The successful applicant will:
- Coordinate the Practical Theology (Field D) curriculum of the College, working collaboratively with staff, faculty, the wider University of Divinity, and the Partnership for Professional Practice;
- Participate in the development and delivery of teaching in foundational and higher-level units, including areas of specialist expertise;
- Maintain an active research profile in Practical Theology, supporting strategic College initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
The Lecturer in Practical Theology will:
- Teach up to four units per year, including at least one foundational unit;
- Contribute to a strong collegial culture that supports academic leadership, innovation, and quality assurance;
- Participate in College and University meetings, committees, and working groups as appropriate;
- Engage in research and publication in Practical Theology and related disciplines.
Essential Qualifications and Experience
Applicants will demonstrate:
- A completed Masters qualification in Practical Theology (or equivalent), with enrolment in a doctoral program (preference given to candidates near completion);
- Teaching experience with demonstrated capacity for dynamic and creative student engagement;
- The ability to engage an inter-cultural student cohort, drawing on diverse resources and perspectives;
- Willingness to affirm the values and strategic purposes of Whitley College.
Preferred Attributes
Preference will be given to applicants with:
- A completed doctorate in Practical Theology or a related field;
- Significant workplace experience that informs teaching and learning in Practical Theology;
- Understanding of, or connection to, the Baptist tradition and context;
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills;
- Active engagement with relevant scholarly associations.
About the University of Divinity
Whitley College is part of the University of Divinity, a collegiate university committed to the highest standards of scholarship in theology, philosophy, and ministry, engaging contemporary issues through rigorous academic inquiry.
Application Process
Applicants are encouraged to:
- Familiarise themselves with this position description and relevant institutional websites;
- Submit a covering letter and CV demonstrating their suitability for the role;
- Provide clear examples of experience and competency relevant to the position.
Enquiries are welcome and may be directed to the Academic Dean, Rev. Dr Andrew Mitchell, [contact details available in the full listing], as part of a process of mutual discovery and discernment.
Applications should be addressed to Rev. Associate Professor Darrell Jackson, Principal of Whitley College, at [contact details available in the full listing] by Friday, June 5th.
