The Anglican Communion Schools' Network (ACSN) is holding its inaugural symposium in London from 30 September to 2 October. Exploring the theme ‘Anglican Schools as Places of Mission and Ministry’, the symposium has brought together 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 is 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 are spending time reflecting on how the network can best serve its diverse membership and strengthen Anglican schooling globally. Bible study is being 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 joined Anglican Communion Office staff for Eucharist and heard from the Rt Revd Dr Jo Wells (Deputy Secretary General and Bishop for Episcopal Ministry in the Anglican Communion) on school education and what constitutes the Anglican calling across differing cultures and contexts.

The programme also includes a visit to a local school and sites of spiritual and historical interest.

As part of the symposium, delegates visited Lambeth Palace, where they met with the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, for a time of conversation and fellowship.

The delegates will also 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.