Changing communities by engaging with schools

"We believe in providing excellent education, within the context of our ethos," says Joy Madeiros, CEO of Oasis. "Our aim is to equip young people to become rounded individuals who can enter the wider world knowing their uniqueness and value, having achieved their potential in school."

Oasis entered the Government's Academy programme as a sponsor in 2007 and now runs several Academies across England. A hallmark of their Academies is a commitment to educational excellence within the context of holistic, community-wide care.

Serving every person

"We believe that every person matters," says Joy. "The Government's 'Every Child Matters' policy is an excellent framework for education … we believe it's important to recognise that children live in a wider framework of family and community.

"We are very clear about who we are and about why we're motivated. We want to be the hands and feet of Jesus, serving young people and their community. But because we are seeking to meet people where they are, we seek to serve without imposing our view on others."

Every church can engage with schools

For many churches the prospect of running an Academy may be out of reach. However, Joy is convinced that every church can engage with local schools in valuable and life-changing ways.

"Churches can do many things that teachers simply don't have time to do. For example, churches could co-ordinate a mentoring scheme, run a 'learning café' or homework club before or after school, and bring the school and community together through helping with events."

Sharing skills to enrich lives

"Vocational skills are hugely in demand by schools that run 'enrichment' programmes. Oasis has recently worked with some of their schools to set up a radio station for pupils. People with technical skills have gone in and worked with students, offering 'side-by-side' mentoring and acting as role models."

Joy does have a word of warning for would-be schools workers though. "It's important for churches to take the safeguarding procedures in schools seriously, and also other rules and regulations. All our Academies and many other schools expect staff to set a good example, even down to the dress code and not chewing gum in front of the children. Anyone seeking to work in a school environment has to be willing to respect those rules, if they are to follow that calling to serve the children and community linked to the school.

Joy says: "As long as you are ready to be involved and support across the boundaries, there is an amazing variety of opportunities open to any church. Schools need people around them who are willing to get involved and make a difference in the lives of children. You can have a tremendous impact if you're willing to just be available for both the children and their parents."

Last Updated 06 December 2010