What is CPAL?
Cathedrals as Partners in Adult Learning (CPAL), is a joint initiative between the Archbishops’ Council and the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE). It operates under the aegis of the Association of English Cathedrals and is overseen by a steering committee consisting of Cathedral and lay representatives. Whilst Anglican Cathedrals are its main focus of activity, the term “Cathedral” can be taken to include Greater Churches as well, and we welcome participation on the part of other denominations.
The purpose of CPAL is to promote, encourage and celebrate the contribution made by Cathedrals to adult learning in all its many and diverse forms. We are motivated by the knowledge that much work of high quality and substantial value is done in this field, but also the belief that there is scope for much more, that the work of Cathedrals in adult learning is not appreciated or valued as much as it should be in the wider community, and that Cathedrals can both give and receive added value by working in partnership with other agencies. We aim to provide a focal point for practitioners and a sense of connection with colleagues in other places, out of which inspiration and encouragement will flow.
In practical terms, CPAL addresses its purpose through its regular newsletter, its encouragement of networking, its conferences and its direct engagement with individual Cathedrals. This toolkit is intended to draw together all the strands of support and advice which characterise those activities, and we hope it will be of benefit to all those with a remit and an interest in adult education.
Richard Ely, Committee member