The Commissioning of our Co-Headteachers
On Wednesday 17 June, we were delighted to welcome staff, pupils, governors and representatives from our Christian community to join us for a service led by Bishop Jill Duff to welcome Ms Barnes and Mrs Best as our Co-Headteachers.
A joyful and deeply prayerful commissioning service was held at Ripley St Thomas Church of England Academy as Bishop Jill formally welcomed Ms Barnes and Mrs Best into their new roles as Co‑Headteachers. Surrounded by staff, students, governors and members of the wider community, the service celebrated the Christian values of faith, hope and love that underpin the life of the academy.
The atmosphere was lifted by a beautiful performance of Love Divine (Howard Goodall) from the chapel choir, whose captivating voices set a reflective and celebratory tone for the occasion.
During the service, the Co‑Headteachers were officially welcomed by representatives from across the school community and presented with symbolic gifts to support them in their shared leadership:
- A Bible — presented by Director of Education, Ian Parks, as a source of inspiration and guidance.
- A cross — given by the Vicar of Lancaster, Revd Graham Young, representing the centrality of faith and the strong relationship between church and school.
- A key — offered by a representative of the Governors and Directors, symbolising responsibility, trust and the unlocking of potential within the school community.
- A candle — presented by two Year 9 pupils as a reminder of Jesus, the light of the world.
The service concluded with the chapel joining together in harmony to sing the school hymn, marking the beginning of Ms Barnes’ and Mrs Best’s shared leadership rooted firmly in Christian vision and values.
