Church School Vision

Deeply Christian, Serving the Common Good

In 2016, the Church of England Education Office produced their ‘A Vision for Education:  Deeply Christian, Serving the Common Good’. This visionary publication unpicks what it means to be a church school staying true to its foundations in seeking to educate the whole child and be a blessing to their community. It centres upon a theological reflection that explores what it means to provide an education where everyone flourishes. One that builds upon the belief that schools should enable pupils and adults to live ‘life in all its fullness’ (John 10:10).  It shows that our schools should be places of Wisdom, Hope, Community and Dignity.

Developing Theologically Rooted Visions 

Since its publication, our church schools have been developing their expressions of a Christian vision that serves their community. These theological-rooted visions guide our schools to be shining lights in their communities, caring for the most vulnerable and being places that shine out God’s love for all. These now form the main focus for SIAMS (church school) inspections. 

The Education team work closely with school leaders and governors to support schools as they explore what it means to be a church school in their context. Training and bespoke support are available for schools that are developing or reviewing their visions. 

Flourishing Systems

In June 2023, an extension to the vision document has been published. ‘Our Hope for a Flourishing Schools System‘ challenges school, multi-academy trust, diocese and government leaders to collaborate more to ensure that every school flourishes.