What the Mandate is

The Episcopal Mandate, sometimes called missio canonica, is the Bishop's formal authorisation for a teacher to teach the Catholic faith in his name. It is required for heads of Religious Education in Catholic secondary schools across the Diocese of Shrewsbury, and is recommended best practice for primary RE leads and chaplains.

The Mandate is not an academic qualification. It is a recognition by the Bishop that this teacher is in good standing with the Church, holds the necessary formation, and is sent on mission. Bishop Mark Davies awards it personally.

Who needs one

• All Heads of RE in Catholic secondary schools and academies in the diocese.
• Lay chaplains in Catholic schools where this is required by school policy.
• Recommended for Heads of RE in Catholic primary schools.
• Encouraged for any Catholic teacher with a substantial RE teaching role.

Where it is required, the school's appointment of a head of RE is conditional on the Mandate being granted within a reasonable period of taking up post.

What you need to apply

1. A formation qualification. The standard route is the Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies (CCRS), the national programme run by the bishops of England and Wales. The diocese coordinates CCRS through Fr Michael Coughlan. A theology degree (BA, MA, or above) from a recognised Catholic institution is also accepted in place of CCRS.
2. A reference from your parish priest. A short letter confirming that you are a practising Catholic in good standing with the Church.
3. Countersignature from your headteacher. Your headteacher confirms the role you hold in school and supports the application.
4. Application form. Issued by the diocesan Education Office on request.

Step one: contact the Education Office

Begin with the diocesan Education team. Email education@dioceseofshrewsbury.org with a brief note: your name, school, current role, and intent to apply for the Mandate. The Education team will send the application pack and confirm whether you need to complete CCRS or whether your existing qualifications are sufficient.

The Episcopal Vicar to Education is Canon David Roberts, who can be reached on david.roberts@dioceseofshrewsbury.org for more substantive questions.

Step two: complete CCRS where needed

If you do not already hold a theology degree, apply for CCRS. The course is delivered modularly and combines online study with face-to-face days. Each module covers a defined area of Catholic teaching: Scripture, Christology, sacraments, moral life, mission, and the like.

CCRS typically takes two years alongside a teaching post. Speak to Fr Michael Coughlan about scheduling, and discuss with your headteacher whether the school will support fees or release time.

Step three: complete the application

Once your formation is in place:

1. Fill in the application form fully.
2. Attach proof of your CCRS or degree.
3. Attach the parish priest's reference.
4. Have your headteacher countersign.
5. Return the pack to education@dioceseofshrewsbury.org.

Step four: review and decision

The Education Office reviews the application and makes a recommendation to the Episcopal Vicar to Education. The Bishop then awards the Mandate. The full review process takes eight to twelve weeks. Most of that time is spent confirming references and the formation record. Submit early in the school year so the timing aligns with the annual ceremony.

Step five: receiving the Mandate

Mandates are usually presented by Bishop Davies at the annual RE Leaders' Day, a diocesan gathering for heads of RE and senior leaders in Catholic schools. Family and headteachers are invited. The Bishop reads each mandate aloud, prays over the teachers, and presents the certificate.

Receiving the Mandate at the RE Leaders' Day is a strong professional and pastoral moment. If you cannot attend the Day, the Education Office will arrange an alternative presentation.

Renewing or transferring the Mandate

The Mandate is granted for the period of your teaching ministry in this diocese. If you move to another diocese, the receiving bishop will normally accept the Shrewsbury Mandate or issue a new one. If you take a substantial career break and return, contact the Education Office to confirm the Mandate is still in force or whether it needs to be reviewed.

If a Mandate is declined

Most applications are granted. Where there are concerns (formation gaps, a question raised in references, a personal situation that needs further conversation), the Education Office will speak with you directly before any decision is made. Issues are usually addressable and the Mandate granted after further work or a follow-up conversation.

Practical contacts

• Education Office: education@dioceseofshrewsbury.org
• Episcopal Vicar to Education: Canon David Roberts, david.roberts@dioceseofshrewsbury.org
• CCRS Coordinator: Fr Michael Coughlan
• Curial Offices: 0151 652 9855, 2 Park Road South, Prenton, Wirral CH43 4UX

Catholic RE in Shrewsbury serves more than forty thousand pupils across the family of schools. The Mandate is the formal way the Bishop sends a teacher into that mission. Apply early, study well, and the Mandate becomes the framework for a teaching career rooted in the faith of the Church.