Bolton Sixth Form students visited Bolton Parish Church to develop their understanding of the role the Church of England plays in society.

A-level religion, ethics, and philosophy students enjoyed visiting the historic Bolton Parish Church last week to listen to a talk by the church’s resident lecturer, Revd Ian Hepburn.

The Church of England is a significant institution and employer, and students had the opportunity to understand different job roles within the organisation.

Students observed Holy Communion and the different stages of a service.

The visit connected to key topics studied on the course such as faith and salvation, the person of Jesus, religious diversity and interfaith, the nature of God, and Christian living.

A spokesperson for the Sixth Form said: "Our students benefited from viewing the rich heritage of the site, in which a church has existed for over 1200 years, and engaged in discussion with Revd Ian, Revd Grace Hart, and the Church Warden raising the ‘big questions’ with them from pre-determinism and the nature of God through to views on euthanasia.

"They also gained insight into their distinct roles, the history of the church, and the idea of ‘living faith’ revelling in learning about Revd Ian’s former role as a paramedic.

"The group heard about the church’s social, cultural, and spiritual work in the community from its work with Urban Outreach, Fort Alice, and local government through to links with schools and hospitals."