Each one should use whatever gift they have received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.
1 Peter 4:10
Historically, the Church has worked in local communities. Both churches and schools are passionate about inspiring and helping young people to develop character which will stand them in good stead for the future. It makes sense, therefore, to work together with the same focus, sharing skills and experiences.
Work with churches can raise pupil aspiration, develop greater empathy, deepen spirituality, build relationships and create opportunities for members of the school communities to develop qualities such as compassion, hope and forgiveness.
Building a deeper relationship with the school supports families and the wider community in more meaningful engagement. Research shows that pupils gain a lot from the positive influences of adults other than their parents. Volunteers often consider their school visit the highlight of their week. The relationship should be supportive and mutually beneficial. Where church–school relationships are good, the connection is widely valued and acknowledged by all members of the community.
True relationships that have wider impact and lasting effect involve many members of the church and school community working together.
More about these can be found in the paper A good church school relationship and on the resources page of the diocesan website.