Godstone Deanery Synod
Report on the meeting held at Oxted on 6 February 2007
The work of the Board of Education in support of Church of England schools in the Diocese
Barbara Lane, Director and General Secretary, Southwark Diocesan Board of Education
Historically, the Church has played a big role in the provision of education in this country; a partnership with the State developed, the latter gradually playing a larger part as Church funds dwindled and Local Education Authorities developed following the 1944 Education Act.
“Church schools stand at the centre of the Church’s mission to the nation.” (General Synod, 1998)
Church of England schools should be both distinctive and inclusive, offering nurture and service, and the Christian ethos running through the schools should be evident in every aspect of school life. Today Church Schools are popular and often outperform others. It in anticipated that the “failing” school in Mitcham, which was taken over by the Southwark Diocesan Board of Education (SDBE), and opened in September 2006 as St Mark’s Church of England Academy, is likely to be oversubscribed by next September. Have a look at their website: http://www.stmarksacademy.com/.
In Southwark there are 106 Church of England schools (91 primary and 15 secondary) with more than 33,000 children and young people, approximately 3,700 staff and 1,500 school governors. The Board aims to support Christian education by providing professional, expert advice and assistance, promoting equal opportunities, valuing cultural diversity, addressing racism and working in partnership with local authorities and organisations at diocesan, national and international levels. It is hoped to do more with further education and chaplaincies in the future.
We can support education by taking an interest in all schools (including community schools), encouraging Christians to train as teachers, acting as governors and volunteers and leading worship. A new Admissions Code of Practice comes into force soon. Admission policies are complex but very important locally, and should always take account of the local context.
Back to Church Sunday, 30 September 2007
Speaker: Ann Wright, member of the Diocesan Evangelism Group
This started in Manchester in 2004, since when it has gathered momentum with Southwark taking part for the first time this year. The concept is simple: invite people to church on 30 September 2007 who have some understanding of church, but have got out of the habit of attending. We are encouraged to get PCC support. The key to success is personal invitation and planning ahead. A contact person should be appointed. Resources can be ordered and details of workshops planned for May and June will be available soon.
Business Meeting
· Revd Roger Watts, Mrs Marion Simpson (both Godstone) and Kenneth Bush (Hurst Green) were elected as representatives on the Archdeaconry Pastoral Committee.
· Parishes were reminded that they must re-apply to admit children to communion before confirmation.
· Annual inspections of parishes are to take place soon, with the Archdeacon visiting 7 of the 20 churches within the Deanery and the Area Dean the rest.
· Kenneth Bush asked parishes to thank their treasurers for the prompt return of their deanery dues.
· The Deanery Synod Standing Committee must nominate, by 23 February, a Deanery Synod member as representative for the Board of Education, to serve for 3 years from April.
Morning conference
“Towards understanding Islam” St John’s, Hurst Green, 9.30 for 10am – 1pm, Saturday 19 May. There is plenty of room, so please encourage people to attend!
Next Deanery Synod Meeting
20 June, South Nutfield: Wendy Robins, Director of Communications & Resources & Bishop's Press Officer
Janet Harman, Deanery Synod Secretary (janet.harman@ntlworld.com)