We are an academic community, shaped by a Catholic ethos and grounded in the vision of the Second Vatican Council with its emphasis on the importance of formation in the Catholic faith, commitment to the common good and openness to dialogue with the world. In this spirit, we aim to reflect ‘whole church’, embracing the entire breadth of Catholic theological tradition. We offer high quality theological education which is practice-oriented and outward-looking, working with people and institutions from all backgrounds and faiths, through dialogue and deep listening.
As a member of the Cambridge Theological Federation (CTF), we are associated with the University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University. Together with other Houses of the CTF, we provide unique opportunities for ecumenical and inter-faith encounters. Our educational offer, while prioritising women, is available to all, worldwide, through in person and online teaching, with courses ranging from unaccredited short courses, to postgraduate diplomas, taught master’s degrees and research degrees. We offer a contemplative space, with a rich tradition of retreats, quiet days, liturgical services and pilgrimages, frequently with the support of the MBA.
Our theological profile is grounded in inter-disciplinary engagements and relevance to personal and professional contexts of all kinds. The teaching staff, research fellows, associates and students, individually and collectively, contribute to different contexts – academy, church and wider society.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to provide formative and transformative experiences to all, especially women in three strands of the Institute’s work: teaching, research and practice. With the same dedication as our namesake Margaret Beaufort who used her knowledge and wealth to expand education, the Institute aims to offer high quality learning opportunities, nurture outstanding research and foster theologically grounded pastoral practice. Ultimately, our mission is to make a difference in church and wider world.
OUR VISION 2030
- To nurture and support transformative learning at all levels for all members of the Institute’s community
- To promote the feminine experience and presence in theology and the education of women for leadership in ministry
- To engage actively in theological, ethical and spiritual formation as a full member of the Cambridge Theological Federation
- To provide leadership support, mentorship, ethical coaching and pastoral supervision, both in the church and the wider world
- To develop partnerships and collaborations so that together we can respond attentively, imaginatively and constructively to the needs of church and world
- To foster sustainable development; to be a careful steward of human, natural and financial resources
- To cultivate synergies between teaching, research and practice in all our activities
If you would like to know more, you can read our five-year strategy here.