Chichester Cathedral hosted its first Sixth Form Conference in 2026, launching a new annual initiative designed to support young people in exploring big ideas at the intersection of faith, philosophy, and contemporary life.
The conference forms part of the Cathedral’s wider commitment to learning, offering a space for young people to think critically about questions that shape society, belief and personal identity/ Twenty-one students from St Wilfrid's Catholic School in Crawley, Ardingly College in Haywards Heath and The Weald Community School and Sixth Form in Billingshurst took part in the inaugural event.
The Reverend Professor Andrew Davison, Regius Professor of Divinity at the University of Oxford and residentiary canon at Christ Church Cathedral, led the academic sessions. Known for his accessible teaching and interdisciplinary approach linking science, ethics and Christian doctrine, Professor Davison offered students a rich introduction to ideas that complement and extend their A Level studies.
Discussions throughout the day touched on the nature of God, Trinitarian theology, what it means to be made in the image of God, salvation, predestination, fate and artificial intelligence. Students also explored the Cathedral building with Canon Chancellor, the Reverend Dr Earl Collins, reflecting on how physical space, symbolism and the unseen contribute to spiritual understanding.
Feedback from both staff and students was overwhelmingly positive. One student shared:
“I really liked Prof Davison and Earl, they were very engaging and interesting, I felt comfortable to ask questions and I was introduced to new ideas and perspectives. I really liked the level of challenge; it was accessible but stretched me to think and consider more.”
Teachers noted that the conference encouraged conversations that continued well beyond the sessions themselves, offering valuable enrichment alongside school-based study.
Reflecting on the day, Rosie Bradberry, Creative Learning Manager, said:
“We are thrilled with how the students engaged with big questions this year. The conference continues to be a space where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking come together, and we look forward to building on this for 2027.”
Chichester Cathedral will welcome students back for the next Sixth Form Conference on Thursday 4 March 2027, further developing this new programme of learning and reflection for sixth form groups across the region. To express interest on behalf of your school, please contact: rosie.bradberry@chichestercathedral.org.uk