Rev Dr Nick Foord's James Fellowship* project explored what it means for schools like ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë to sustain their Anglican identity in 2024. While some Anglican schools prominently embrace their heritage, others appear to downplay their Anglican roots. Since ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë’s founding in 1889, societal changes, including world wars, immigration, and technological advancements, have reshaped the context of Anglican education. The School’s community has also evolved, transitioning from predominantly churchgoing families to a more diverse demographic.
Dr Foord employed various methods in his research, including website analysis and interviews with key stakeholders. He also attended an Australia-wide Anglican schools conference on the theme of Anglican identity, providing opportunities to engage with a range of schools on the subject. Additionally, he visited several Anglican schools in the UK, including Eton College. Founded as a Catholic School in 1440, Eton experienced numerous reformations yet continues to uphold an Anglican identity. Closer to home, St Catherine’s Anglican School in Waverley, originally established for clergy daughters, now serves a diverse student body while maintaining its Anglican foundation.
Dr Foord's findings highlight the complexity of defining an Anglican School in 2024. Influences range from theological stances and leadership to community demographics. While many schools emphasise inclusivity, educational excellence, and pastoral care, their approaches to the Christian Gospel and Anglican identity vary. Some schools see their Anglican heritage as foundational, while others regard it as merely historical.
ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë continues to take pride in its Anglican foundation, striving to holistically educate, nurture, and train students within a Christian community while balancing tradition and contemporary relevance.
*The James Fellowship, established by the ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë Foundation and named after past ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë parents Bill and Elizabeth James, supports professional growth for ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë teachers. Each year, it funds three staff members to attend international courses or study tours, enabling them to bring valuable insights back to the classroom and Common Room.