Sunday the 20th of January saw the re-introduction to East Garston Church of "Education Sunday" A service of prayer and celebration of education.   "Education Sunday", the day when all Christians celebrate and thank God for education, for the gift of learning. However, we don’t always think of learning and education as a gift.   When we have to get up early for school, when we’re under pressure with exams and tests, or doing a subject we don’t really enjoy, it can be a real pain in the neck. But as humans we have amazing potential to learn.
We don’t just learn from teachers. We can also learn from our parents, grandparents, brothers or sisters, friends, as well as important people from history and the media etc. There are all kinds of people who inspire us and people we can learn from, so today's service reminds us that education - and the ability and potential we all have to learn - are gifts.

The displays were all produced by pupils from local area schools, and represented the work they do within those respective schools. We saw work from six schools in all - Great Shefford Pre-school - Great Shefford C of E - St Bartholomews - Brightwalton - John O' Gaunt and Ridge House School. All have East Garston pupils in attendance.   The Revd Tony Cumberlidge, who conducted the service, spoke of the precious gift of education, open to all of them. After reflecting on his own experiences at school, he reminded everyone that learning is a life-long process. As the children listened intently, he suggested that one day some of them may themselves become teachers.

After the service, the children manned their own displays and took great pride in explaining the work they do and how they cope with school in general. They spoke of their teachers and the way in which the better ones endevour to make learning as interesting and relevant as possible. Like all professions it seems, as I overheard one young lady say, some teachers are excellent and others are, (and I quote) A total waste of space.  As on previous special occasions, Tea - Coffee and the most delicious chocolate biscuits were available to all. Upward of 60 people, (adults and children) attended the service on this cold and damp January day.
Revd Cumberlidge reflected afterwards, how impressed he was that the children so readily responded to the occasion, putting a great deal of conscientious effort into the design of their displays. He commented also upon their attention and concentration during the Prayer of Consecration, apparently appreciating the symbolism of what was taking place.   We should all remember not to take for granted the fact that education is free to us in this country, a basic human right which we can enjoy, and let’s also remember people living in countries where they can’t get an education, because it costs too much, or is simply just not provided or available.
Photos : Ken Tarbox