Shades Schools Worker (Racial Justice and Faith)

The Diocese of Manchester has established the Places Project, which is currently working with 33 schools and 33 churches in developing discipleship pathways for children and young people in Bolton. One key aspect of this project is the ‘Shades Project’, which focuses on racial justice and faith, supporting schools and churches in developing a culture for all children and young people, regardless of racial background, to thrive and flourish.

In response to the exciting growth of the Shades Project, we are looking to appoint a Shades Schools Worker, to support the growing opportunities for Christian discipleship, and to embed the Shades ethos, in primary and secondary schools and parishes in Bolton deanery.

The Shades Schools Worker will work with the Shades team, in primary and secondary schools, delivering Shades Collective Worship and Shades ‘Safe Space’ workshops. They will also lead Shades Ambassadors groups, for those children and young people who are passionate about growing in their understanding of racial justice, the Christian faith and becoming courageous advocates. The Shades Schools Worker will also work with Bolton parishes and mission communities to promote the Christian message of God’s love for all of his children, encouraging children, young people and adults to celebrate their God-given identities and to grow spiritually.

The Shades Schools Worker will have many opportunities for training and development, as well as the creative freedom to develop initiatives for children and young people. They will work within a highly motivated and supportive team, who are committed to prayer and to welcoming children and young people into the life of the church.

The post holder should have experience of volunteering with children or young people in a church and/or school context. They will have a good knowledge of anti-racism and racial justice and a strong passion for a combined focus on the Christian faith and racial justice as well as experience of working with diverse communities.

To succeed, they need to be enthusiastic, relational, self-motivated and able to lead in a range of different contexts. They will be creative and able to lead and support activities in schools and parishes. They will be excellent communicators, with good interpersonal skills, sensitivity and an ability to communicate effectively with people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. They will be able to build and maintain effective working partnerships and have a working understanding of safeguarding policies and procedures.

We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. A passion for racial justice, the Christian faith and working with children and young people is essential. Experience of working within a racial justice context, although desirable is not essential, given the wide range of training and development opportunities provided. A desire to learn and grow is very important.

There is an Occupational Requirement for the post-holder to be a practising Christian, in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010.

The post will be offered to the successful candidate subject to an enhanced DBS check with barred list check (child workforce), satisfactory references and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

To apply please click the APPLY button. Application should be made via a laptop or desktop rather than a mobile device. Please refer to the job description and person specification for further information.

Closing Date: Friday, 27 February 2026 at 5pm

Interviews: Tuesday, 10 March 2026, at St John’s House, The Rock, BL9 0ND

Location: Bury, BL9 0ND

Contract Type: Fixed Term to 31st December 2028

Hours: Full time - 35 hours per week

Salary: £28,111 - £32,436 per annum