The DBE promotes religious education and collective worship in schools and promotes and support Church schools. It works alongside external education bodies and has a wide range of volunteers who assist the staff in required inspections of collective worship and religious education. Andy Mash, the Director of Education, also assists governors by attending the appointment of senior staff.

The Board provide professional advice on inspection, employment and accommodation; sets up occasional training seminars for clergy, parishes, teachers and governors; and works in a close partnership with the Childrens' Services department of the Local Authority. It is responsible for the quality of education provided in Voluntary Aided schools and provides specific support to Special schools.

30% of Norfolk’s schools are church schools, representing more than half of Norfolk’s small schools. These serve 25% of the young people in the Diocese, which is equivalent to four times those who worship in churches.

There are 38 voluntary aided schools in the Diocese, all primary schools except one. The Church appoints the majority of governors and the governing body is responsible for employment of staff, admissions and maintaining and replacing the buildings. The Board is the responsible authority in the preparation for and aftermath of inspections.

There are 71 voluntary controlled schools, all primary school and including three in Suffolk. Each of these has at least two Church governors to safeguard the Christian nature of their collective worship. The Board staff is involved in the appointment of the Head Teacher and is able to give advice on other matters. Their buildings and admission procedures are the responsibility of the Local Authority.

In addition, the DBE supports 2 foundation schools, both primary, which have at least two Church governors. They are responsible for employing staff and admissions, whilst subject to the Local Authority in other matters.

Community schools also have access to advice from DBE staff on collective worship, religious education and spiritual development.

Further information and resources about church schools