Message to Schools from Rt Revd Peter Hill, Bishop of Barking & Acting Bishop of Chelmsford

Dear friends,

As our schools continue to be closed, except for the children of key workers, please know that I and the other leaders of our diocese so much appreciate all that you are doing.

To ensure the continuing education of the children and students who remain under your direct care at school and the much greater number under your online direction at home is so essential for their future, especially so for those who remain on examination courses. As an ex-teacher myself, I realise that covering all the needs that can arise in these demanding circumstances is no easy task, including those necessary for keeping all children safe.

At the heart of church school education is the reality of Christian hope: a hope that will enable our young people to fulfil their potential, care for others and flourish in a world that will be very different beyond this time of pandemic  restriction. Christians are called by God to learn, love and serve in the world in which he has placed us with all its wonder, tragedy and challenge. What you as teachers provide to nurture that hope and fulfilment can never be underestimated and is to be treasured. You can change lives and no more so than at a time like this.

Please know you are prayed for and valued as we continue this extraordinary journey.

+Peter