Vicar Academy

A behind-the-scenes look at a unique institution - the Church in Wales's college for training vicars. Whilst the church is facing several challenges - from a third of the clergy retiring in the next five years, to crumbling buildings and shrinking congregations, a new generation is being trained to tackle these problems head-on. Drawn from a variety of backgrounds and experiences these individuals are sent out on placements to parishes, prisons, hospitals and schools, as well as to traditional bible studies and lectures. Will the new kids at the altar get their dog collars, or will the challenge be too much for them? In this episode, we follow three students at work and at play. Plain speaking rugby mad Roz has a lively history, from working as a bouncer to an artist's nude life model, and she's not afraid of shocking fellow students. Whilst Huw likes the more traditional aspects of church services he also considers himself an anarchist. Will a spell at Cardiff prison shadowing the chaplain take the wind out of the sails of a man who's had a few run-ins with the police himself? Former banker Steven has had to sacrifice more than most to join the college. How will he fare during the sermon assessments when he goes head-to-head with Roz?

A behind-the-scenes look at a unique institution - the Church in Wales's college for training vicars. Whilst the church is facing several challenges - from a third of the clergy retiring in the next five years, to crumbling buildings and shrinking congregations, a new generation is being trained to tackle these problems head-on. Drawn from a variety of backgrounds and experiences these individuals are sent out on placements to parishes, prisons, hospitals and schools, as well as to traditional bible studies and lectures. Will the new kids at the altar get their dog collars, or will the challenge be too much for them? The trials and tribulations of students training to be vicars in the Church in Wales. Plain-speaking rugby-mad Roz throws herself into training with the Cardiff Harlequins as she questions whether the college is the right place for her. Huw continues his placement at Cardiff prison and struggles with his nerves when faced with the everyday challenges behind bars. Divorced mother-of-two Alex shows her caring side when sent to a placement at a care home, whilst Marcus has his eyes opened by a visit to a night shelter for the homeless run by the churches in Merthyr.

It is Easter time at St Michael's College, and whilst first year Roz continues to struggle with doubts about her place on the course, some of the other students are throwing themselves into studies and placements. Lorraine has to look after the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of Wales in a nerve-wracking service. Steven is rolling up his sleeves with the Bishop of Swansea and Brecon to raise money for charity by polishing shoes in the market. And Huw's back behind bars at Cardiff prison for the last time. There is also a group visit to the crematorium to make sure they can all tell the difference between the all-important buttons.

It's the end of the academic year at St Michael's College, and there are chances for the students to let down their hair and to shed a few tears as well. Third years Steven and Alex are both getting ordained, and are moving into their respective new homes ready for a life wearing dog collars. But with baptisms and weddings to attend to within no time at all, what's life after college really like for the new recruits?