On Tuesday 9 June 2026, The Rt Revd Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich, welcomed 78 pupils from church schools across the diocese to a special Bishop’s Ambassadors’ Lunch, celebrating the remarkable ways in which young people are living out Christian values in their schools and communities.
The event highlighted the often-unseen acts of kindness, courage and service undertaken each day by pupils and students in church schools. This year, those efforts were brought into the spotlight, as each nominated pupil received recognition for their outstanding contributions to their school, local area, or a cause close to their heart.
Each student attended alongside two family members and their headteacher, with governors, trustees from the diocesan academy trusts, members of the Diocesan Education Team, and clergy also joining the celebration. Before the meal, the gardens of Bishop’s House were filled with joyful energy as children and families enjoyed the sunshine—some playing games, others chatting together in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.
During the ceremony, the Diocesan Director of Education, Chris Allen, shared moving citations for each award recipient. Many of the stories reflected extraordinary compassion and selflessness.
Among those recognised was Lenny from Docking CE Primary Academy. When his best friend was diagnosed with cancer earlier in the academic year, Lenny showed outstanding empathy, maintaining daily contact during his friend’s treatment and offering unwavering support on his return to school. His actions exemplified the spirit of care and friendship that the awards seek to honour.
Travis, from Harleston Sancroft CE Academy, was also celebrated for raising over £2,000 to support repairs to Harleston Church following significant fire damage. His efforts were part of the St Benet’s “Immeasurably More” programme, an initiative designed to empower pupils to make a meaningful difference in their communities. Reflecting on the day, Travis said; “I was pleased Bishop Graham suggested my school nominate me – being here is a real honour.”
Charlotte, from Flitcham CE Primary Academy near King’s Lynn, demonstrated exceptional dedication to charitable giving. Having previously donated her hair to the Little Princess Trust to help create wigs for children experiencing hair loss, she repeated the act this year. At the lunch, Charlotte proudly revealed her newly shortened hairstyle, a visible sign of her generosity and commitment.
Speaking after the event, Chris Allen commented: “Charlotte represents what we hope all 16,000 pupils and students in our church schools aspire to—helping everyone to live life in all its fullness.”
The Bishop’s Ambassadors’ Lunch was a powerful reminder of the positive impact young people can have when inspired by faith, compassion and a heart for service—often in the face of significant adversity. Veronika, from Yaxham CE Primary Academy near Dereham, embodies this spirit. Having arrived in 2022 after fleeing the war in Ukraine with only a handful of English words, she has since amazed staff and peers alike with her rapid acquisition of the language, while continuing to maintain her Ukrainian through weekend studies.
Jenny Muller, Headteacher, reflected on Veronika’s journey: “Veronika carries the worry of close family members who have been left behind, yet she shows such care and empathy for others in our school community, readily supporting both adults and fellow pupils. Now in Year 5, she is an excellent role model to our younger children. She was chosen by her peers as our ambassador because she lives out our school values of love, perseverance and creativity each day—through her attitude to learning and her support for others. We feel truly blessed that she came to Yaxham and could not be more proud of all she has achieved.”
Everyone left the day with happy memories and a sense of being truly blessed to have such inspiring young people in our diocesan schools. Every pupil celebrated was a real example of the diocese education vision of achieving immeasurably more.
