Helen Lings is a theologian by education (B.A. Hons Theology and Master of Theology, Nottingham University) and a teacher by profession, with 40 years' experience in the public and independent sectors, her last post being as head of RS and lay chaplain at an independent, boarding preparatory school. She is a clergy wife with many years' experience in and around the C of E parish system, leading Junior Church and other children's activities. She has also written for Scripture Union's teaching resources.