Are you passionate about seeing young lives transformed by Jesus?
Do you love building relationships, creating fun and faith-filled environments, and inspiring the next generation?
The Forest Heath Lightwave Hub (part of the Lightwave Community and the Church of England in Suffolk) is seeking a dynamic Youth Leader to serve in Red Lodge and surrounding rural villages, near Bury St Edmunds. You’ll be part of a pioneering team helping young people (ages 10–18) discover a life-changing relationship with Jesus.
The position is Full Time, Fixed Term to End of 2027 based at Red Lodge, Suffolk
The salary is £25,000 – £26,500, depending on experience.
Hours: 35 hours/week, flexible including evenings/weekends
Application Deadline: 4 June 2025
Start Date: As soon as possible
What You’ll Be Doing
- Leading and growing youth groups, including Youth Church, Trail Blazers, and Deep Rooted.
- Creating exciting events, trips and outreach activities that draw young people in.
- Equipping and mentoring young people to serve and grow in faith.
- Connecting with schools and community organisations to reach young people where they are.
- Building and training a team of passionate volunteers.
- Supporting Sunday Junior Church and working alongside the wider “Growing Younger” team.
About You
The ideal candidate will be someone who:
- Is a practicing Christian with a vibrant personal faith in Jesus.
- Loves being with young people and is young at heart.
- Has experience leading youth work and delivering talks/discipleship activities.
- Is highly organised, creative, and a great communicator (online and in person).
- Understands the importance of community and evangelism in rural settings.
- Can plan, manage, and evaluate ministry projects effectively.
Bonus if you have:
- Theological training or youth work qualifications
- Experience with church-based or school-based youth ministry
- Skills in social media and digital communication
The position will offer:
- A chance to shape a growing youth ministry in a supportive Christian team
- Ongoing training and spiritual development
- 25 days holiday + public holidays
- Flexible working arrangements and TOIL (Time Off in Lieu)
- Pension scheme (after probation)
About Lightwave:
Lightwave is a network of small Christian communities meeting in rural Suffolk – part of the Church of England in Suffolk. Its mission is to shine the light of Jesus into every part of life through witness, worship, and social action. It aims to be church for people who don’t normally “do church” – especially young people.
Essential requirements:
- Enhanced DBS
- Full UK driving licence and access to a car (insured for business use)
- Occupational Requirement: practising Christian (Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9)
How to apply:
Please apply using the official Lightwave application form – no CVs or online applications.
Please go to this link:
https://www.lightwave.community/resources/red-lodge-youth-worker-role
Send your application marked ‘Confidential Application’ to:
📧 [email protected]
📬 or by post to: Red Lodge Lightwave, 5 Russet Drive, Red Lodge, IP28 8GA
👋 Want to Chat First?
Email Alison Earl at [email protected] for an informal conversation.
If this sounds like you, the Lightwave Community can’t wait to hear from you!
Join the team in making a lasting difference in the lives of young people in Suffolk.
