from Good Practice with Schools produced by Diocese of Birmingham August, 2007

St. Bede’s have worked at a unique connection with their local community primary school. The Church wanted to work with the school to try to improve the local community.

The first thing they did was to consult with the children using the Children’s society Leaves of life material to find out how they would like to see their community improve. Following this the local Vicar met with the school council and they agreed three priorities along the areas of cleaning up vandalism and litter and greening the area.

Year 5 were then given the task of coming up with some specific proposals and these included erecting dog mess bins, planting bulbs and increasing security fencing.

The children then met local councillors and council officials along with the local MP to see how these things could be done. After much work the priorities were put in place and a special service of thanksgiving was held in the Church.

This is a way in which Church and school can work together to enhance the life of the local community and to see the Church as part of that community.

If you want to find out more you can contact Revd. Andy Delmege.