Partners & Families

Partners

Partners and families are valued members of the community. Partners are entitled to become full members of the Common Room, come to meals, and attend lectures, worship and social events. They can also attend Common Room meetings to discuss any issues relating to College and to put their views.

Each year a Partners' Representative is elected. Their role is to make sure partners know what is going on around College, to offer support, and represent views at various meetings. They also arrange weekly social events, such as trips to the pub, bowling, picnics, bring and share meals, as well as occasional family events at weekends. There is also a weekly child-friendly drop-in coffee and cake session, and there are also informal Bible study groups, with a programme arranged on a termly basis.

Some partners find it helpful and rewarding to join the Cuddesdon School of Theology and Ministry which offers an introductory series of lectures that explore theology, biblical studies, ministry and spirituality. There is a termly course fee but partners are entitled to a substantial discount.

Partner's stories

I found my time at Cuddesdon a chance to learn about my partner’s calling and become a part of the formation. The social life is warm and friendly, and you share one another’s experiences. It has left me fully equipped for life in the parish.
Gerry Kelsey

Children

The College is home to a large number of children of all ages. They are welcome to join the community for lunch, tea at 4pm, and certain other meals. There is a TV/playroom next to the Common Room and lovely grounds to play in, including a sports field, where every Sunday afternoon there is a family-friendly football match when children can play alongside ordinands, partners and staff.

On Wednesdays there is Cuddesdon Junior Church, for children of all ages, which is great fun and allows both parents to attend College Eucharist if they wish. About every three weeks there is an all-age service.

There is also a Children’s and Young People’s Advocate who represents their needs in the community and is a point of reference and contact for them.

There are excellent schools close to Cuddesdon, Garsington Primary and Wheatley Park Secondary School.