On Wednesday 11th February 2026, young people from across Wigan gathered for The Deanery Church of England High School’s Alpha Youth Day, building on the success of last year’s inspiring event – that helped so many young people connect with Jesus.
Held at The Edge Conference Centre in Wigan, the day brought together 250 students, accompanied by over 30 members of school staff, for a shared opportunity to explore faith, ask questions and reflect together.
This year, the school welcomed additional partners, with Scripture Union and volunteers from the local Methodist Circuit joining Way Church and the Church Wigan Next Gen Team in supporting the event. The day was a true example of churches and Christian organisations working collaboratively to serve young people across the region.
Throughout the day, students took part in small-group conversations focused on the Holy Spirit, all made possible by volunteer hosts from local churches. These sessions created space for open discussion. Alongside this, Scripture Union led creative craft and prayer activities, offering young people accessible and engaging ways to explore faith and consider their own responses.
Students also learned more about Christian worship through a music workshop led by Joy Moore from Way Church in collaboration with the school’s Performing Arts Department. The day concluded with prayer and worship, bringing everyone together.
The Alpha Youth Course provides a relaxed and welcoming environment for young people to explore some of life’s biggest questions around faith. At the Deanery Church of England High School, Alpha forms part of the PSHE programme, helping pupils to understand the Christian values and ethos that shape the life of their school. Through the course, students are introduced to the foundations of Christianity and encouraged to reflect on how faith connects with everyday life.
The support of Church Wigan’s Next Gen Team, local clergy and partner churches made it possible for the school to offer Alpha as part of its curriculum.
