The Catholic Independent Schools' Conference (CISC) is a UK-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and representing Catholic independent schools primarily within the United Kingdom and internationally. Registered under charity number 1063645, CISC serves as a dynamic and forward-thinking family of schools with a global presence[1][4].

Purpose and Activities

CISC's principal aim is to promote the work and defend the interests of Catholic independent schools, emphasizing their distinct mission and Catholic identity. The organization provides support and advice to its member schools to help them maintain and enhance their Catholic ethos while delivering high-quality independent education[4].

The conference acts as a professional network that offers a wide range of services including pastoral and spiritual support, professional development, training, and study programs tailored for Catholic school leaders. It facilitates collaboration and the sharing of best practices among members, fostering a cohesive Catholic educational community[3].

Membership and Reach

The Catholic Independent Schools' Conference includes over 150 member schools located not only in England but also across Scotland, Ireland, France, Spain, Gibraltar, Italy, and Singapore. Collectively, these schools educate more than 40,000 pupils from nursery age through to eighteen years old[1][3].

Membership is open to Catholic heads of independent schools, who can join as full or associate members. The organization provides members with access to numerous benefits such as participation in the CISC Annual Conference, continuous professional development opportunities, and a network of support that spans multiple countries[3].

Major Events and Partnerships

A flagship event is the annual CISC Conference, a significant occasion in the Catholic educational calendar within the UK known for its welcoming, family atmosphere. The conference features workshops, keynote speakers, and spiritual activities including Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Confession, and a Conference Mass, thereby integrating educational and faith-based enrichment[3].

CISC also collaborates with partners who help promote and celebrate Catholic education globally, further extending its influence and outreach in Catholic independent schooling[1].

Governance

The organization is governed by a Committee composed of representatives from a broad and diverse range of leading Catholic independent schools. These individuals bring substantial expertise to guide the charity’s strategic direction and ensure that it remains responsive to the needs of its members and the wider Catholic educational mission[1].

In summary, the Catholic Independent Schools' Conference is an influential UK nonprofit dedicated to fostering the identity, mission, and educational excellence of Catholic independent schools both domestically and internationally. Its comprehensive programs and global community make it a cornerstone organization in Catholic education.

[1] https://www.catholicindependentschools.com/about/ [2] https://independentschoolsyearbook.co.uk/?id=2580 [3] https://www.catholicindependentschools.com [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/constituency-search/-/charity-details/3076439/full-print [5] https://www.nais.org/getmedia/c1b9d8b6-d3b4-4705-9bec-cc1f362ca868/HistoryofNAISbyEstyfinal.pdf