14th May 2026
DBE News
Getting Ready for SIAMS – New CPD now Available on the DBE Website
It was lovely to see Headteachers and colleagues at the recent in-person session delivered by Keith Farquhar, Church Schools Distinctiveness Advisor for Birmingham Diocese. Don’t worry if you missed it – Keith has recorded the session and you can find the slides, documents and recording on the DBE website resources page. Look for ‘Getting Ready for SIAMS 2026’ and access with the usual passcode.
Vacancy for Interim Church School Foundation Officer
The DBE are looking to recruit someone who will help our church schools flourish in a deeply christian foundation, serving the common good through a vision of wisdom, hope, community, and dignity.
Please do pass on this link to colleagues who you think may be interested in the role to find out more and how to apply.
Wellbeing Lunch – Booking Closes Soon!
All Headteachers and senior leaders are welcome to attend to the upcoming Wellbeing Lunch on 10 June at Coombe Abbey. Please do book your place here by 8 May.
Christianity as a Global World Faith – NSE Resources
This half day CPD session will be led by Keith Farquhar, Church Schools Distinctiveness Advisor for Birmingham Diocese. It is for RE Leads (primary and secondary) to explore a bespoke training package that can then be used to train your teachers. ‘Christianity as a Global World Faith’ is a brand-new resource that aims to work together with Understanding Christianity to challenge the Eurocentric vision of Christianity.
Weds 20 May – 09:30 – 12:00 – in-person event at a venue near Wawick
Headteacher Termly Briefing
Thurs 11 June – 14.00 – 15.30
Agenda
- Opening Reflection and DBE Update – Revd April Gold – Diocesan Director of Education
- God and the Big Bang – Michael Harvey, Executive Director
- Global link work at All Saints CofE Junior, Warwick – Sandra Sutherland, Headteacher
- Introducing the new Belonging Pop Box and how pupils use it to lead collective Worship at Wootton Wawen CofE Primary – Emma Kenyon and Vicky Khawaja, Assistant Headteacher
- Farewell to Revd April Gold – Andy Taylor, CEO of Messenger Trust
- Closing Comments and Prayer
Chorister Open Evening at Coventry Cathedral – Info to Pass on to Your Families
Chorister Open Evening – Tuesday 19 May 2026
We encourage families to attend our Chorister Open Evening to find out more and experience cathedral music first‑hand.
Date: Tuesday 19 May 2026
Time: 16:30–18:30
Venue: Coventry Cathedral
Who can attend: Boys & Girls currently in school Years 2–6
For children who love to sing, becoming a chorister at Coventry Cathedral can be a truly life‑shaping experience. Our choristers receive outstanding musical training, sing regularly in the Cathedral’s worship, and grow in confidence, teamwork, and leadership – all within a welcoming and inclusive community. We warmly welcome children of all backgrounds, schools and faiths. You do not need to be ‘religious’ to apply – only a love of singing and a commitment to the life and values of the Cathedral.
More information here and on the Cathedral website.
For the full Headlines newsletter contact joanne.evans@coventrdbe.org