Our relationship with the Church
Lincoln Bishop University was originally founded as a teacher training college by the Anglican Church in 1861, with a mission to improve access to education for people from all walks of life. Learn more about our history.
The character of our relationship with the Church has changed and adapted over the past 160 years – but our Church of England foundation still has an important formative effect on the nature of our community today, and drive our values.
Still based on the site of our original founding, the University’s location in the Cathedral quarter of Lincoln means we are just a short from Lincoln Cathedral – one of the worlds most famous Cathedrals, steeped in almost 1000 years of history.
Building on our faith heritage, Lincoln Bishop and the Cathedral have a proud history of working together to support and educate our community, and enhance our students' experience.
The nature of the Lincoln Bishop University community
We believe engaging with peers and the wider community is essential for meaningful learning in higher education. Our goal is to foster a collaborative environment where shared experiences, a community of learners, can enrich everyone. Guided by our heritage, we are committed to supporting all communities, especially marginalised groups, as reflected in our motto: “Don’t keep it to yourself!” – a motto particularly pertinent to our focus in educating those seeking a life of service within the public sector, and promoting the common good in society through the careers and vocations our learners seek to enter.
Our University Council
We believe engaging with peers and the wider community is essential for meaningful learning in higher education. Our goal is to foster a collaborative environment where shared experiences, a community of learners, can enrich everyone. Guided by our heritage, we are committed to supporting all communities, especially marginalised groups, as reflected in our motto: “Don’t keep it to yourself!” – a motto particularly pertinent to our focus in educating those seeking a life of service within the public sector, and promoting the common good in society through the careers and vocations our learners seek to enter.
Church representatives play an important role in shaping, influencing and supporting the University’s strategic direction, through their role on our University Council.
The Council includes The Rt Revd Stephen Conway, The Bishop of Lincoln, and other representatives from the Diocese of Lincoln and are the custodians of the University They help to ensure the University’s work aligns with its founding mission and ethos. A designated group, called the Church of England Foundation Steering Group, has a particular focus on the elements of University life and learning that relate most closely to that mission and ethos.
Graduation at Lincoln Cathedral
The beautiful Lincoln Cathedral hosts our annual graduation ceremony, giving our graduates a day they will never forget
Our strong relationship with the church makes Lincoln Bishop University one of the most inspiring places to study Theology and Religious studies, and we remain one of a select group of institutions providing this opportunity.
The Cathedrals Group: Our Church Foundations and Collaborative Partnership
Our church foundations form the cornerstone of a robust partnership between the University and 14 other universities across England and Wales. Like ourselves, these institutions were originally established by the Church with the aim of widening access to education. This longstanding connection underpins our shared values and collective commitment to educational opportunity.
Working Together as the Cathedrals Group
The collaboration is formalised through the Cathedrals Group, a partnership of 15 universities. The Group works closely alongside representatives from the Anglican, Catholic, and Methodist Churches. United by a common purpose, we promote a vision for higher education that highlights not only academic achievement but also the holistic development of individuals. This includes intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth.
Joint Initiatives and Influence
Members of the Cathedrals Group engage in joint research, collaborative projects supporting students and graduates, and policy development. Through these joint efforts, we strive to enhance the university experience and outcomes for all involved. Furthermore, the Church draws upon insights and expertise from the Group’s members to inform its discussions with government and other key partners, ensuring that our collective voice contributes to shaping the future of higher education.
Schools and colleges
As a University shaped by improving access to Higher Education, Lincoln Bishop maintains strong connections with schools of various faiths, and continues to strengthen these relationships by expanding its networks. The Student Recruitment and Widening Participation teams provide a wide range of tailored activities and advice to school partners, supporting students from diverse backgrounds in accessing Higher Education. The team offers both general guidance and faith-specific support, reflecting the ethos of each partner institution. Lincoln Bishop's commitment to inclusivity and respect is evident in all its community values and practices.
Learn more about our work with schools and colleges:
Our Chaplaincy
Our Anglican identity is demonstrated by our dedicated, full-time Chaplain and the presence of an on-campus Chapel, providing a multi-faith Prayer Room. The Chaplaincy team warmly welcomes everyone of all faiths and none.
The Chapel provides a venue for both group gatherings and personal quiet contemplation, while weekly events and celebrations of diverse religious festivals and holy days are coordinated by the Chaplaincy team.
