The Diocese of Chichester
The Diocese of Chichester covers almost exactly the whole of the county of Sussex, relating in educational terms to three local authorities: West Sussex, East Sussex and Brighton and Hove. It covers approximately 1,459 square miles and has a population of 1,492,000. More details of the diocese can be found on the diocesan website: www.chichester.anglican.org
Church Schools in the Diocese
The Diocese of Chichester Board of Education (DBE) is charged under the DBE Measure 2021 and various education acts to oversee the work of all Church of England state funded schools in the Diocese. Currently there are 154 Church of England schools in the diocese – 38 have voluntary aided status, 76 have voluntary controlled status, 40 are academies. The main differences between these types of schools can be found in the following document: VA/VC Schools- Whats The Difference? In addition to this there are two further schools who have decided to affiliate to the diocese. In total, these schools educate c.42,000 pupils.
DBE Vision
"Rooted to grow by faithfully shaping education to know, love and follow Jesus today."
Our vision is to promote and assist in a transformative education across the diocese that is consistent with the faith and practice of the Church of England. We are committed to growing church schools where worship is central, and where every child is recognised as uniquely made in the image of God with inherent human dignity.
Grounded in Christian teaching we foster a culture of learning that seeks to release the God-given gifts of every individual. Through co-operation with our schools, academies, and partners, we empower all to know, love, and follow Jesus today, enabling our communities to experience life in all its fullness.
Education Department
- support and training in RE and Collective Worship more information can be found on the Training Page of the Website:
- strategic and focused training for headteachers, senior staff and clergy;
- assistance in developing the Christian distinctiveness and character of the school;
- advising on the appointment of
head teachers and deputyhead s; - provide support for inspections under Section 48 of The Education Act 2005 (SIAMS);
- pre and post Ofsted training and support;
- advice in maintaining, developing and funding school buildings;
- governor appointment, training and support;
- advice in formulating and administering pupil admissions policies;
- Advice on structural changes including sharing headship and academies.
Year 6 Leavers Celebrations for over 4,000 pupils leaving church primary schools, are held each year in various venues across the Diocese.
A strong partnership exists between the Education Department and the East Sussex, Brighton and Hove and West Sussex local authorities.
All church schools in the Diocese are invited to enter into a Partnership Agreement with the Board of Education.