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Oxford Diocese & Chaplaincy

The Diocese supports over 280 Church of England schools across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Berkshire. The Diocese helps us to nurture a school community that reflects the Christian vision of “life in all its fullness.” It provides training, chaplaincy guidance, collective worship resources and governance support—ensuring that our ethos remains strong, inclusive, and values-led.

Meet Our Chaplain

We are fortunate to have John Spence, Youth Minister from the Parish of Great Chesham, as our school Chaplain. John plays a vital role in the life of the Academy, offering pastoral care, spiritual guidance and support to both students and staff.

What Our Chaplaincy Offers

John is involved in a wide range of school activities, including:

  • Leading Collective Worship and supporting school services throughout the year
  • Facilitating Staff Prayer and Reflection sessions
  • Supporting RE lessons and Sixth Form debates, helping students explore big questions around life, faith and ethics
  • Helping to plan and deliver our Thought for CHA programme
  • Offering compassionate care during times of difficulty, such as bereavement or personal challenges
  • Hosting ‘Come and Talk’ sessions for staff, supporting wellbeing and personal reflection

Chaplaincy at Chiltern Hills Academy is open to everyone, regardless of faith or background. It provides opportunities for reflection, support and personal growth while helping students explore values such as hope, compassion and respect.

Faith, Reflection and Inclusion

Solid Rock – Our Christian Union

We also run Solid Rock, our student-led Christian Union. Inspired by Jesus’ teaching about building a life on solid foundations, the group meets weekly during Tuesday lunchtimes and welcomes everyone—whether you have a faith or are simply curious. It’s a safe space to ask big questions, share ideas, and explore what Christianity has to say about the world around us.

Open to All

While our Chaplaincy is rooted in the Christian faith, it is here for everyone. We respect and celebrate the diverse beliefs and backgrounds of all our students and staff. Our chaplaincy programme reflects our core values of compassion, hope, love and respect—and supports our vision of helping every young person flourish.

The Chaplaincy at Chiltern Hills Academy is generously supported and funded by the Parish of Great Chesham.

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Through chaplaincy, collective worship and opportunities for reflection, students are supported in their personal development and encouraged to consider their place within the wider community.

Supporting the Whole Person

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