About us – what we do
Conferences
The main event organised by the association is an Annual Conference, now held in September, and lasting three days. It normally takes place in a Cathedral City or where there is sufficient accommodation and space for both plenary sessions and smaller seminars or workshops. It brings together both clergy and laity who have responsibility for the care of Visitors and Education. Outside speakers are invited in order to stimulate discussion and there is time for informal exchanges amongst delegates and networking.Last year's conference was held at Coventry Cathedral from Tuesday 29th September - Thursday 1st October. The 2010 conference will be held at Gloucester Cathedral from Tuesday 21st - Thursday 23rd September.
Other Communication Activities
In addition to the conferences, communication amongst members is conducted through regional meetings, a newsletter, and the website, as well as one-to-one contacts made through attendance at conferences and through the internet. Advice on practical matters is also disseminated through the Secretary.
A Pressure Group
Although non-political the association is able, through the support and makeup of its membership, to act as a pressure group. It has taken part in consultation on both tourism and education related topics with Government and other national bodies. It has also been involved in the Government’s review of Heritage Policies and the Manifesto for Learning Outside the Classroom. It is represented on the Attractions’ Forum which meets under the auspices of VisitBritain, and on the committee of Cathedrals as Partners in Adult Learning which promotes cathedrals as vehicles for life long learning.