© Norwich Cathedral

The Herb Garden
© JW Warren

Five years ago Norwich Cathedral took a ground-breaking step in appointing a full time member of staff dedicated to outreach. The post was created to make the cathedral more accessible to people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, of all faiths and none. In particular we:

• encourage people who might not otherwise think of visiting the cathedral to take advantage of learning opportunities here
• do our best to take the cathedral to people who cannot get to the cathedral for some reason (eg cost, age, health) through sessions in schools, visits to care homes, prisons and community groups.

The Cathedral is grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund and Anguish Educational Trust who have been enthusiastic and generous funders of this valuable work.

The Community Learning Officer was closely involved with the community project which turned the Herb Garden into a reality. Other recent events include an activity day based on the cathedral labyrinth, a flower-arranging demonstration, and a lecture series on church history and artefacts. She has been instrumental in the development of a Faith Map of Norwich, for the Norwich Interfaith Education Network.

A number of exciting events are planned, including:

• Adult Education art taster day (21 June)
• summer holiday activities for all the family
• the Big Draw, for ages 0-90 (29 October)
• St Nicholas' Day and Christingle activities (6 December)
• Community Carolathon (23 December)

The Community Learning Officer, Jill Napier, herself an experienced teacher, also supplements the work done with schools by the Head of Education, by offering a number of school outreach packages. Jill is always happy to discuss tailoring something special for your needs.

Please contact Jill (01603 218321) if you are interested in any event or would like her to visit your school or other community group.