Voluntary Writers/Editors etc. - Go Teach

WORKING WITH GO TEACH

GO TEACH began as a ministry in which one group of churches set out to help other churches by producing Bible teaching lessons for their children and young people. Gradually other churches became involved in the ministry and the work has continued to grow. From producing one book annually for one age group, we now produce a total of 36 books each year for 4 age groups and there are plans for more. Although becoming increasingly professional in its presentation, most of the work is still being done by ordinary church members, rather than by professionals. Would you like to help us?

We use a team of over 60 writers, editors, artists and readers from all over the country to produce our lessons each year. Their work is planned, assigned, evaluated and then collated by a team of 5 full time members of staff. We are constantly in need of more help to develop the quality and range of our publications. Perhaps you have some of the gifts and experience we need and are willing to contribute to this ministry by working at home in your spare time. Listed below are the main opportunities for service with GO TEACH, along with a list of general qualifications.

WRITERS

For our regular material, after successfully completing their trial exercise, writers are assigned to the age group of their choice. They are commissioned to write from 2 to 5 lessons for any or all of the 3 issues published each year, according to their preference. We usually give at least 4 months between the commission and the deadline for completion of the whole assignment. A template and various notes are provided to guide the writer so that the results of their work are consistent with other writers and with the general requirements of the material. On average, a lesson can take 10 to 12 hours to write and writers are paid an honorarium for each one. We welcome initiatives from writers concerning different types of material they want published and writers may sometimes be approached to contribute to other publications that are being planned.

READERS

Once it has been written, a lesson is sent to a reader. Their role, within the age group of their choice, is to provide the editor with a second opinion and another source of ideas for improving the lesson. The reader does this by making suggestions, rather than editing the text. The reader checks the suitability of the lesson for its designated age group. This will involve an assessment of the language and concepts presented and readers can offer alternatives to what the writer has set down. Readers are sent between 2 and 6 lessons per issue. Using an evaluation sheet, they can comment on the strengths and weakness of the lesson and suggest improvements. Each lesson takes about an hour and readers are usually given two weeks to complete their work. A small honorarium is paid to readers.

EDITORS

The task of the editor, within their chosen age group, is to make sure lessons are ready for publication. They help to maintain a high standard as well as both variety and consistency in the lessons. If the lesson is deficient in accuracy, completeness, length, standard or style, the editor can make appropriate alterations. In doing so, they liase with the writer and consider the comments of the reader. Editors receive up to 5 or 6 lessons for each issue, 3 times a year. Editors have 3 months to complete their work and each lesson usually takes 4-6 hours to edit. Before their appointment they must successfully complete a trial exercise. They are paid an honorarium for their work.

PROOF READERS

Proof readers are sent the final, edited text of a whole book of 15 lessons. They check every word and sentence for spelling, grammar and accuracy and make sure all the scripture references are accurate. If a proof reader wishes to comment on the suitability of some aspect of the lesson they can do so, but it is not expected of them. A standard system of proof correcting marks is used and proof readers have 10 days to complete their work. A small honorarium is paid.

ARTISTS

Artists are commissioned to produce visual material once the lessons have been completed. They must have good illustrative skills and a desire to represent the biblical text accurately. After commissioning, the artist provides roughs for the Art Editor, who will discuss the final details and the eventual format of the illustrations. Biblical characters are depicted in a realistic style, as we do not use cartoons or caricature. Christ is not normally depicted visually. Artists are paid an honorarium based on an assessment of the nature of the work they have done.

COME LEARN WRITER

The purpose of the activity sheets is to reinforce and extend the learning provided for each age group. Writers of this material are sent from 2 to 6 completed lessons and asked to draft a set of on-paper activities, with linking text, to fill two sides of A4 for each lesson. These contributors are also paid an honorarium.

QUALIFICATIONS

Whatever your contribution may be, you must be able to give evidence of;

• a love for the Lord and his Word
• training and/or experience of working with children
• a good Bible knowledge and understanding of basic doctrine
• at least a good GCSE in English or an equivalent
• an ability to use a PC at home
• a lively and creative mind with some ability to be analytical and precise

Writers and editors are required to assent to our doctrinal statement.
If you are unfamiliar with our material, our website will provide a suitable introduction. If you believe before the Lord he may be directing you to help us with this ministry, please discuss the matter with the oversight of your church before contacting us, so that you will have their recommendation. If you would like more information before completing the enclosed form, please ring the Editorial Director on 01625 422272. (Author: )

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