Diocesan Partnership and Support

Is SIAMS asking schools to engage with the Diocese?

Yes — but in a specific and purposeful way.

SIAMS explores:

• The quality of the relationship between the school and the diocese
• How schools make use of diocesan support to strengthen leadership, vision and Church school effectiveness
• How diocesan engagement contributes to ongoing development, not compliance

This sits primarily within:

• Vision‑led leadership
• Self‑understanding and reflection
• Effective governance
• Up to date knowledge and training with regard to Diocese and Church of England expectations

Working with the Diocese

SIAMS inspections explore how effectively Church of England schools work in partnership with their Diocese. This relationship is an important source of support, challenge and encouragement, helping schools to live out their Christian vision and continue to develop as Church schools.

What SIAMS is looking for

Inspectors will explore:

• How school leaders and governors engage with diocesan guidance and support
• Whether the school is aware of training and development opportunities
• How learning from diocesan events or networks informs practice and reflection
• How the school responds to advice and support when appropriate

The focus is not on attendance for its own sake, but on impact and intentional engagement.

Training and event participation

Participation in diocesan training, networks and events can:

• Support leaders and governors to deepen understanding of their role as a Church school
• Strengthen confidence in articulating Christian vision
• Support reflective practice and continuous improvement
• Demonstrate a school’s commitment to learning and partnership

Inspectors may explore how this learning has influenced thinking, decision‑making or practice.

What this does not mean:

SIAMS does not expect schools to attend every event offered by the diocese. They are interested in how schools make purposeful use of diocesan support to strengthen their Church school effectiveness.

The role of leaders and governors

SIAMS recognises that:

• Leaders and governors are responsible for knowing where support is available
• Engagement should be strategic and relevant to the school’s context
• Strong diocesan relationships support accountability, encouragement and flourishing

Support available from the Diocese of Chelmsford

The Diocese of Chelmsford offers:

• Training and networks for: Collective Worship, Religious Education, Spirituality, Social Justice and Responsibility.
• Church School leadership Course (CSLC) for all aspiring or current church school leaders
• SIAMS workshops
• Governance support, webinar training and conference day
• Opportunities for professional dialogue and networking
• Named diocesan contacts for advice and support
• Events: Year 6 Leavers Cathedral Days, Secondary School Music Concert, Bradwell Pilgrimage and Pupil Justice Summit Day. 

Our courses & events

 

If you have questions, please contact our Assistant Director of Education - Katrina Carroll