About the School
The School of Chaplaincy is a department of Tenwek Hospital College, which is registered with the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA).
Thirty-five years of training chaplains
- 1991
Founded as the L. Nelson Bell Chaplaincy Training School. Dr. Ernie Steury, the first doctor to serve at Tenwek Hospital, saw that the hospital needed full-time chaplains to serve alongside its medical team, and no college or university offered the training.
- Across Africa
More than 200 students trained, from African nations including Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Nigeria, Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Competency-based curriculum
Redesigned with TVET CDACC into a Certificate (Level 5) and Diploma (Level 6) in Chaplaincy, both examined by CDACC, in line with competency-based learning across Kenya.
- Looking ahead
New specialities and study levels to grow chaplaincy as an area of professional growth.
Christ-transformed and competent professionals serving humanity.
To prepare Christ-like professionals for competent service through holistic, quality, Bible-centred training and research.
To equip chaplains for wholistic service.
What shapes our chaplains
Holiness
Promoting a Christ-like life, as shown in His love and empathy.
Servanthood
Dedicated to serving God and humanity.
Professionalism
Promoting knowledge and excellence in the ministry of chaplaincy.
Integrity
Accountability, good stewardship of resources, and moral and ethical conduct.
Resilience
The ability to withstand and cope with stress and challenges of all kinds.
Timeliness
Delivering what is required of us, in a timely and appropriate manner.
Teamwork
Diverse individuals committed to a shared vision.
Karibu to the School of Chaplaincy
Thank you for taking the time to read these words of welcome.
Since 1991, the School of Chaplaincy at Tenwek Hospital College has had one purpose: to equip chaplains for wholistic service. We train men and women to meet the spiritual needs of people wherever they are found. That means hospital wards and hospices, schools and universities, military formations, police stations and correctional facilities, and the many places beyond the four walls of the church.
Our students learn in a living classroom. The school sits beside Tenwek Hospital at Silibwet, among schools, colleges, correctional facilities and sports teams. Here, what is taught in class is practised among real people with real needs. Our Certificate (Level 5) and Diploma (Level 6) in Chaplaincy are competency-based and examined by TVET CDACC. They were shaped by a study of chaplaincy training needs across Kenya. Students who are far from Bomet, in Kenya or abroad, can join us through interactive online study.
Above all, we are rooted in Christ. Our lecturers teach and mentor with dedication, and we pray that every graduate leaves us as a Christ-like professional, competent and compassionate.
“I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”1 Corinthians 9:22
If these words stir something in you, God may be calling you to chaplaincy. If you know someone with such a longing, please share this with them.
We admit students every January, May and September. Come, and we will walk with you as you answer God’s call.
Mr. Robert Bett
Principal, School of Chaplaincy
Is God calling you to chaplaincy?
We admit students in January, May and September every year.