An open letter to partners and sister organisations

We’re excited to share some encouraging news as we head into 2026 with a refreshed vision and deeper commitment to our calling here at Christian Values in Education Scotland.

Following Rev Dr Steve Younger’s retirement in November 2025 (huge thanks to Steve for his wonderful years of service as Chaplaincy Project Leader!), we took time to pray and reflect. We spoke with fellow Christian organisations serving Scottish education, and one need stood out clearly: more dedicated encouragement and connection for Christian teachers and school staff who long to live out their faith with quiet confidence every day in school.

So that’s our heart now: to inspire and support Christian teachers and school staff to live their faith naturally and joyfully in the classroom. This feels so timely. Teachers face real pressures – recent figures show nearly 600,000 teaching days lost to mental health challenges since 2020/21, and stress and burnout are sadly common. At the same time, many children in Scotland have little or no contact with the Gospel. For some pupils, a Christian teacher or classroom assistant may be the only believer they encounter regularly. A kind word, a listening ear, steady integrity or the joy they carry can quietly point young hearts toward Jesus in ways that last forever.

We truly believe Christian educators are called to be salt and light right where they are (Matthew 5:13-16). We also know this calling can feel daunting amid busy school days. That’s why CVE Scotland exists – to come alongside them with practical encouragement, reminding them they are not alone and that their faithful presence matters deeply. Through prayer, shared stories, and mutual support, we want to help them persevere with joy, knowing their witness can make an eternal difference. We’re planning more regional meetups, training days, and online spaces where teachers can connect, pray together, share what God is doing, and grow in confidence. Our blog will feature real testimonies from schools, gentle guidance on sharing faith appropriately, and practical ideas for weaving Christian values into daily teaching. This renewed focus builds on our past while reaching out to more educators who are quietly shining for Christ each day.

To help us connect we’ve produced publicity material – if you would like some to distribute, just email Lynn MacMillan at cve@cve-scotland.org.uk. We’d also love to hear from you – how can we support one another, partner together, or pray for your work? Visit cve-scotland.org.uk for our latest resources, upcoming events, and mailing list sign-up.

As Megan Patterson steps down as Chair of CVE Scotland at the end of March, we pause to give thanks to God for her many years of faithful service. Megan has led with grace, wisdom, and deep commitment to our shared mission, guiding us through seasons of challenge and growth with Christ-like humility and strength. We are profoundly grateful for the time, prayer, and love she has poured into CVE Scotland – her leadership has borne lasting fruit. We praise God that Megan will continue serving as a valued volunteer, still sharing her gifts with our community. Thank you, Megan. To God be the glory!

Finally, to you all. Thank you so much for your friendship, prayers, and partnership. Together let’s encourage and stand with those bringing Christ’s light into Scotland’s schools – often the only glimpse of His love that some young people will ever see. With love and gratitude,

The CVE Scotland Team