Timing

The time is right for a bold strategic initiative in RE.

Religious, spiritual and ethical issues are of increasing interest to the young, and to society at large. The growth in GCSE take-up rates, now over half the age cohort, is one indicator of this; the increase in Religious Studies entries at A Level is another. The launch of the NFRE and the recent decision to increase the bursaries and award ‘golden hellos’ to secondary RE trainees have boosted the self-confidence of the RE community.

There is also growing realisation at European (eg Council of Ministers) and international (eg UNESCO) levels that an educational understanding of the religious and spiritual dimension is fundamental to our common humanity. Many of these countries do not currently have a place in their school curriculum where this happens and are increasingly looking (reflected in international conference agendas and official visits) at the English and Welsh model as an exemplary way forward.

In the light of current events, an early announcement of a national RE strategy would send an important signal both to those communities who feel their faith is misunderstood and also to the wider community who will be reassured that something is being done to tackle the on-going threat at a ‘hearts and minds’ level. This would also be welcomed by Muslims, who seek trust, self respect and mutual understanding as a peaceful means to defeat any violent forms of extremism. This RE strategy would be a key part of the Government’s co-ordinated, whole community response to our current world condition.

back to top!