The small student body at NCSBS makes it possible for students to develop close friendships with each other, the Warners Chapel church, and the faculty. There is a family camaraderie, with everyone working toward the same purpose -- becoming better prepared for faithful service to Christ. Students work together in class and outside of class. 

Students are required on an occasional basis to perform various work assignments, such as helping with the buildings and grounds, helping with mail-outs, etc.

Daily chapel and other activities encourage spiritual growth. Students share a common faith and love for the Lord and His church. The student body includes people of various ages, educational backgrounds, and experience.

While academic standards are high and the work requirements are intensive, faculty members take a special interest in helping each student to succeed. Every instructor is a Christian who wants to give help and encouragement to every sincere student.

Study demands are high, including extensive reading, memory work, and writing. Students who lack skills in these areas will be encouraged to develop them. These requirements help students to develop personal discipline habits for effective work as preachers. For example, all students are given training in how to study and in how to do research.

Students should not enroll at NCSBS with the expectation that the work will be easy. On the other hand, none should fail to enroll for fear that the work will be beyond an average person’s ability. The program calls for approximately eighteen hours of work in class each week and approximately twice that time in outside study. This intensive schedule through two years helps students develop both their abilities and confidence.

Luke 2:52 records that Jesus “increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” At NCSBS this is viewed as a model for preaching training -- development of the whole man. Accordingly, attention is given to more than academics. Through instruction, counseling, social and recreational activities, and practical experience; attention is given to developing personality, proper family attitudes, discipline, and good interpersonal relationships.