The Parish of Bilston

Close links are maintained with the Parish of Bilston. The Vicar of St. Leonard’s Church is also a Foundation Governor. He visits school regularly for worship and Governor meetings. Children take part in services at St Leonard’s Church and visit the Church as part of their R.E. activities.

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Our three Foundation Governors are as follows:

Rev Dave Wills 

Parish Team Rector

Mike Shelley-Smith

Church Warden and Ordained Chaplain

Mark Bircher 

Chair of Governors

Saint Leonard’s Church

We are a Church of England school and we are proud to have close links with the community of Saint Leonard’s Church, Bilston.

St. Leonard’s Church is located in the heart of Bilston town. Built in 1834, it is the fourth building to occupy the site since at least 1090 (possibly even 997). It is a large classical style church which has many unusual features including; a ‘chamfered’ square tower, with a cupola, clock, and a golden globe and weather vane. It has a fine interior, also in the classical style with many mouldings and columns; it has a number of interesting memorial plaques and a beautiful stained glass east window which depicts the crucifixion. Our children love exploring the church and finding out about its past and present use.

The vicar, Reverend Dave Wills is a member of our Governing Body and is a frequent visitor to the school, leading our worship regularly. The children all love the inevitable terrible jokes! Mike Shelley-Smith and Mark Bircher, members of the PCC are also Foundation Governors.

The children always enjoy their visits to the church. Our Harvest Festival, Christmas Carols Service and Easter Celebration are held at St Leonard’s and are always occasions to look forward to. Many of our parents and members of the local community join us on these wonderful occasions. The children also enjoy visiting St Leonards as part of their curriculum where they are given the chance to explore the features of the church close up; to talk with Rev. Dave and ask questions, bringing their R.E., PSHE, and History topics to life.

We also enjoy visits from Daniel Lee, a minister from Bilston Pentecostal Church who often leads worship and leads our Worship Group. We also have links with Adrian Lloyd from Bilston Baptist Church.