History of Thunder Academy
2022
After a two-year delay due to Covid, Ian Clayton and Robbie Venter launched the first Academy. A ten-week intensive that marked the foundation of everything that followed. With the successful inaugural Thunder Academy and growing hunger from people eager to step into what Ian Clayton had been building over many years, the trajectory began to shift and the future took shape.
2023
In 2023, we ran two smaller groups to trial a shorter timeframe. Most participants chose to stay on for both academies, confirming that a four-week school is the ideal length. It provides enough time to be fully immersed, challenged, and to wrestle with what’s unfolding within, while still being encouraged to move forward.
2024
2024 marked a significant shift as Son of Thunder became the sole facilitator of Thunder Academy. We welcomed a rich mix of returning students, those new to the community, and people from all walks of life. As the Academy continued to grow, we moved into the auditorium, with the classroom no longer able to accommodate the scale. This season also saw Jude join the team. Her intentionality and care for community beautifully complemented and strengthened the Academy experience.
2025
2025 concluded our fifth Academy in four years, with our largest turnout to date and an incredibly well-knit group of individuals. The depth of community connection and the journey people walked through was truly remarkable.
