TV Personality Offers Support for New Faith School

Television Presenter Diane Louise Jordan is encouraging parents and teachers to consider their children's spiritual and moral education as well as their physical well-being as she attends the opening of a new faith school by the Archbishop of Canterbury in Bromley.

The announcement comes at a time when TV Chef, Jamie Oliver is campaigning for school children to have healthy dinners.

"A holistic approach to education is what every child needs, in fact it's what every individual needs," Diane Louise Jordan told Premier Radio today.

She went on to state Bishop Justus School in Bromley as an example.

"Without compromising its own beliefs, Bishop Justus School is an inspiring model of embracing diversity."

The faith school, which offers 50 per cent of its places on the basis of religious commitment and 50 per cent of community places without reference to religious commitment, has been running for three years, but will open officially on Friday.

Jordan, who has supported the school throughout its growth, will be present alongside the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, and the Minister for London Schools, Lord Andrew Adonis.

Lord Adonis commented: "Extending opportunities for young people and raising standards in our schools are at the heart of this government's agenda and we are committed to supporting this in every way. Everyone at Bishop Justus has worked hard to create an inclusive culture where all pupils can reach their potential."

The head teacher of Bishop Justus, Kathy Griffiths, is certain core Christian values are relevant to the education of all her students. Her efforts of inclusion have even seen school children of other religions grow in their faith.

"There are students here from a whole variety of Christian denominations, not just C of E, students from different faiths, and students without a faith background at all. They can all share in the schools vision and be assured that all members of the school community are equally valued and encouraged to contribute their ideas, abilities and understanding."