
Delivery – Blended learning plus a weekend retreat at Ilkley LS29 9BW in April
In-person sessions (three) – Whirlow Spirituality Centre, Whirlow Grange Close, Sheffield S11 9SY
Next course start – March 2026
Duration – Eight months
Cost – £200, covering all lunches and refreshments, the residential retreat, and resources.
Spiritual Growth and Transformation (SG&T) provides formation in prayer and discernment. The course offers a safe and sacred space to explore, reflect, and share experiences of our relationship with God. Themes include images of God, images of self, the spiritual journey and personal calling. SG&T builds on learning through experience. It is not academic.
For everyone
We invite anyone of any denomination or none to apply. We embrace equality and diversity and are working to make accompaniment accessible to everyone. We especially welcome applicants with disabilities and those from minority groups.
To support a wider range of participants, including from the East of the Diocese, this course will be blended (combining onsite and e-learning).
What it leads to
SG&T stands alone. With the Art of Spiritual Accompaniment, it may enable the formation and learning needed to become a Spiritual Accompanier.
Funding
The course is currently supported by a grant to the Diocese of Sheffield from the Church of England’s Strategic Mission and Ministry Investment Board.
The fees quoted are for participants within the geographical area of the Diocese of Sheffield and Sheffield Methodist District.
You may be able to get an additional grant from Whirlow Grange Ltd.
If you live outside the area, please get in touch so we can explore appropriate fees.
Comments from previous participants
‘I have valued opening to new possibilities; a haven of calm; a creative and stimulating exploration of my relationship to God; listening openly in trust to other’s experiences. Having space and time for connection in this way is like taking a deep breath of fresh air.’
‘I found the course to be very gentle and welcoming, mirroring what the leaders taught about the love of God, learning through experience as much as ‘given’ knowledge.’
‘The course has enabled me to look at and experience new ways of connecting with God and others, that are much gentler, truer and more loving than I have known before.’
‘It enabled me to come closer to God and profoundly experience God’s love.’
‘I can now walk into a greater freedom holding onto God in the power of the Spirit.’
Course leaflet
Course details
You can expect the following:
- 3 days face to face
- A weekend retreat
- Zoom sessions with breakout rooms
- Video learning between sessions
Non-web delivery
Please contact Julian Raffay, The Bishop’s Adviser on Spirituality if you are unable to access online learning. We may alternate blended and entirely in person versions.
Related courses

A 6-month course to enable growth in the ministry of discerning listening and spiritual accompaniment.