Open the Book: A Living Legacy in Ashtead
Back in 2014, I received a letter, along with a cheque for £200. After receiving a small legacy on the death of her Aunt Phoebe, my friend Pat had decided she wanted to use the money for the benefit of others. Pat’s words were simple yet powerful:
“This is to start Open the Book in Ashtead. I think you can do this!”
Inspired and challenged by this gift—and encouraged by the Ashtead Parish Youth and Families worker at the time, Martin Dyer—I joined an Open The Book Team already at work in St Giles’ School. The money was donated to the Diocese, and it helped launch a new team in a church that needed support with start-up costs.
What is Open the Book?
Open the Book (OtB) is a national initiative now under the umbrella of the Bible Society. Over 2,500 OtB teams visit more than 3,000 primary schools across the UK, presenting Bible story assemblies that span both Old and New Testaments over a 3-year cycle. These scripted, inclusive sessions contribute to OFSTED’s RE requirements and are welcomed in schools of all faiths and none.
OtB in Action at St Giles
In Ashtead, our OtB team—led by Jaynie—visits St Giles’ School fortnightly to deliver a 15-minute costumed assembly with reflection and prayer - which the children are invited to make their own by saying ‘Amen’. The children often participate enthusiastically, bringing each story to life. One mum shared a touching moment as her 6-year-old son listed his ‘best things’ as: “1. My friends and family; 2. Jesus and God; 3. My pets. 4. My new next-door-neighbour, because she does the best assemblies ever!” (the neighbour was a member of the OtB team!!)
We’d Love Your Help
Join our storytelling adventure! We’re looking for new cast members, creative minds and helping hands to bring the Bible alive in school assemblies at St Giles’ and the rest of Ashtead. Whether you're a budding actor, costume wizard, backdrop brush-master, or boat-renovation enthusiast—we’d love your help! You won’t just be making props… you’ll be making a difference. Could you—or someone you know—lend a hand?
👥 Team members to join us regularly (9:30–11:00 on assembly mornings)
🧵 Dressmakers – costumes like army tunics, belts, even a school of fish!
🎨 Artists – to create backdrops (we’ve got hills… now we’d love a wall or cityscape!)
🔧 Prop renovators – our well-used boats have recently had a makeover!
If you are interested in joining the team - Jaynie Kendall, Patricia Brown, Barbara Laird, Eleanor Chick, Rosemary Bull and James Close; please speak to Jaynie, me or any of the team. You can email Jaynie.kendall@ashteadparish.org – subject Open The Book! You can find out more about the Bible Society’s Open The Book Project HERE.