LEARNING
Community of Practice
Launching in 2026 is an online Community of Practice, meeting quarterly for ongoing professional development and mutual support. Each session will include a key note speech, time for small group discussion in breakout rooms, and a question and answer session.
Freedom of Speech on Campus: A Practical Guide for Chaplains
with Dr James Croft (University Chaplain and Lead Faith Advisor, University of Sussex)
Tuesday 17th November 2026, 10:00 to 11:15
Freedom of speech and academic freedom are fundamental to university life, but navigating them can be challenging. Chaplains often find themselves navigating freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and academic freedom, while supporting students and staff with strongly held (and sometimes conflicting) convictions.
This interactive workshop will explore the ethical principles underpinning freedom of speech in UK universities, and the responsibilities of chaplains and faith advisers.
Through real-world examples and discussion, participants will consider how to uphold freedom of expression while responding sensitively to disagreement, offence and harm.
About the Speaker: Dr James Croft is the University Chaplain and Lead Faith Advisor at the University of Sussex, where he became the first Humanist Lead Chaplain at a UK university. Previously, he served as Senior Leader of the Ethical Society of St. Louis, one of the world’s largest Humanist congregations. He holds a Master’s and Doctorate from Harvard University and an undergraduate degree from the University of Cambridge. A Humanist and LGBTQ+ rights activist, James has extensive experience in public speaking, leadership and using storytelling to inspire social change.