New Hall School was delighted to co-host with The Tablet a one-day conference, Leadership and Legacy: The Future of Women in the Church at New Hall Boreham House on Friday 11 July 2025. A Catholic weekly publication established in 1840, The Tablet addresses contemporary issues, reporting on culture and religion, as well as organising opportunities for connection and exchange for its readers. This collaboration with New Hall School celebrated progress in faith discourse, welcoming open conversation and reflection for the future generations of Christians.

Featuring influential leaders, trailblazers, and emerging voices, the day began with an opportunity for attendees to connect during the initial ceremony, ahead of powerful open dialogue and exploration of the evolving role of women in shaping the future of the Church.

Keynote speaker The Revd Lucy Winkett called for all present to recognise their own power in driving change in society. Since becoming the first female priest to join the clergy of St Paul’s Cathedral, Lucy leads by example in the conversation on women’s leadership, ministry, and mission in the Church. In her promotion of women’s leadership roles in the Church, Lucy focussed on Martha, a Biblical character who is seen as practical and hardworking rather than spiritual, yet she served Jesus with care and earnestness. “I want to suggest that we can deepen our own sense of calling, and have a deeper appreciation of how to teach this gospel by reclaiming Martha,” Lucy explained.

Offering time for inspiration, connection and spiritual reflection, attendees participated in a vibrant worship service, supported by New Hall student musicians and dancers. Following creative lunchtime activities, attendees participated in a selection of workshops, led by Dr Natalie Watson, a theologian and writer, Margaret Hebblethwaite, a journalist and author, and New Hall School’s own Head of Theology Maria Webster. Following personal reflections on women’s leadership and its position in the Bible, the three workshop leaders hosted a collaborative interactive plenary session, providing open discussion, with forward-thinking consideration at the forefront.

Representatives from the Margaret Beaufort Institute, St Mary’s University, Mary Ward Loreto Foundation and Catholic Women’s Ordination, shared opportunities for professional development and spoke to attendees about their roles in supporting women through faith. Attendees also enjoyed art exhibitions by artist Caroline Mackenzie, exploring the Divine Feminine in Christianity, and ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, a Jubilee Pledge Week display of uplifting artwork by New Hall students.

“At New Hall, we are proud of our long-standing Catholic heritage, which inspires our commitment to academic excellence, inclusivity, and the development of the whole person. As a school community, we are passionate about forming future leaders who will go on to shape society with courage, compassion, and vision,” commented Katherine Jeffrey, Principal of New Hall School.

The conference ended with an encouraging blessing and an inspiring call to action in supporting women’s leadership roles. While attendees considered the challenges in extending opportunities for women to lead worship, the networking and collaboration between guests provided a glimpse into a bright future for women in the Church.