The trust deed is a foundational document that shapes the history, purpose, and character of Church schools. Understanding it is essential for maintaining the Christian ethos and celebrating values.
A trust deed is a legal document that establishes the framework of your school, outlining key elements such as:
The trust deed plays a vital role in safeguarding the school’s Christian ethos. It emphasises that faith, worship, and education are central to identity and mission.
Understanding your trust deed empowers your school to:
Contact the Diocese for assistance. While we we may not have access to all Trust Deeds, many are archived nationally. For those unable to locate their specific trust deed, ‘The Way Ahead’ report from the Archbishop’s Council (2000) offers a helpful ethos statement for Church of England schools to adopt. This statement reaffirms the principles that would have been reflected in the Trust Deed.
‘Recognising its historical foundation, the school will preserve and develop its religious character in accordance with the principles of the Church at Parish and Diocesan level. The school aims to serve its community by providing education of the highest quality within the context of Christian belief and practice. It encourages an understanding of the meaning and significance of faith and promotes Christian values through the experience it offers to pupils.’
Archbishops Council, The Way Ahead: Church of England Schools in the New Millennium, 2000
Additionally, a maintained school’s Instrument of Government can provide similar guidance.
Collaborate with Foundation Governors and your Diocese to interpret the trust deed focussing on worship, Christian values and governance roles.
Use the trust deed to shape the school’s vision, plan for collective worship and RE and strengthen partnerships with the local church and Diocese.
For any further enquires or assistance please feel free to reach out to our Team Administrator at education@chelmsford.anglican.org