What is Growing Faith?
The Growing Faith Foundation is an organisation under the Church of England which exists to put children, young people and families at the heart of the mission and ministry of the Church. A key focus is around encouraging churches, schools and households to work together, to grow children’s spirituality and share the Christian faith. One of the main areas of Growing Faith are the Learning Hubs, which are funded to consider creative and innovative approaches to this across the spheres of church, home and school.
The Belfrey Learning Hub began in January 2025 and has maintained two key focuses throughout. The first is to encourage children and young people to interact with the Bible using creative activities, such as poetry, acting and artwork. The second is the use of a consultancy model, with experienced schools worker Tony Bower, who has come alongside local clergy to grow their confidence and abilities to do schools work.
We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders He has done - Psalm 78:4
Why is the church-school partnership important?
Belfrey Learning Hub Year 2
Year 1 Growing Faith Video
Quotes about the project
“Tony’s been helping us cracking open the scriptures and engaging with the young people, and bringing ideas and energy”
Rev Kathryn from local church
“That’s a really easy, really effective method… Giving me that basis and formula was really helpful”
Rev Mike from local church
“Tony delivers workshops that capture the imagination and inspire all children regardless of age or background. Through the use of drama and poetry, Tony uses Biblical stories to help children understand the teachings from the text and how children can use these and relate them to aspects of their own lives. His workshops are always creative and fun – he has supported us enormously with embedding our school values of Aspiration, Respect and Community through the story of Noah’s Ark. Tony involves all pupils (and adults) and listens well to their ideas so they feel they have ownership of the work produced - our children (and staff) just love it when Tony is in!”
Kate, local headteacher