The Anglican Communion Schools' Network (ACSN) is meeting for an inaugural symposium in London (30 September to 2 October). Exploring the theme ‘Anglican Schools as Places of Mission and Ministry’, the symposium is being attended by Anglican school, education and church leaders from across the Communion for learning, discussion, worship and fellowship. 

The symposium is being facilitated by the Most Revd Kay Goldsworthy (Archbishop of Perth and Chair of the ACSN) and the Revd Peter Laurence (Convenor of the ACSN) and is hosted by the ACSN and the Anglican Communion Office.

The ACSN was formally established in 2023 and exists to provide a platform for those who lead and promote school education for children and young people to connect, collaborate and share resources. Through the network, educators can discuss the opportunities and challenges of developing school education that’s anchored in Anglicanism and responsive to a fast-changing world.

Speaking about the symposium, Archbishop Kay Goldsworthy said, ‘Across the Anglican Communion, many Provinces are playing a major role in education provision. In Australia alone, Anglican schools account for the third largest schooling sector, after government and Catholic schools. It is a ministry reaching hundreds of communities and thousands of students. At this week’s symposium, I am excited to meet with Anglican educators from around the world. My prayer is that as we discuss ideas and common challenges, the network will work together to enhance education ministry in church and community life.’

The symposium programme

During the symposium delegates will spend time reflecting on how the network can best serve its diverse membership and strengthen Anglican schooling globally. Bible study will be led by the Revd Canon Dr Stephen Spencer (Director of Theology and Implementation at the Anglican Communion Office and Link Director for the ACSN). 

On the first day of the meeting, the group will join the Anglican Communion Office staff for Eucharist and hear from the Revd Dr Jo Wells (Bishop for Episcopal Ministry in the Anglican Communion and Deputy Secretary General of the Anglican Communion), on school education and what constitutes the Anglican calling across differing cultures and contexts. 

Over the course of the meeting, the delegates will also be visiting a local school as well as sites of spiritual and historical interest. 

Other highlights include a visit to Lambeth Palace, where the group will be received by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally.

The delegates will attend evensong at Westminster Abbey and hear from the Revd Dr Jamie Hawkey (Canon Theologian of Westminster Abbey). 

More information

Learn more about the Anglican Communion Schools' Network.