Agenda item

The Specialist Inspector for Religious Education provided an overview of the current work of RE organisations and the latest news and developments in Religious Education (for copy see file of minutes).

Discussions took place about developments and it was noted that RE is facing interesting and challenging times, for example over its place on the curriculum, external accreditation, teaching of exam courses in restricted time. The profile of RE nationally was being raised, for example through the All Party Parliamentary Group and this is seen as very positive.

Resolved:-

That SACRE agree that:-

·        the Chair write to the All Party Parliamentary Group and offer Durham SACRE’s support;

·        the Inspector write to MP’s expressing concern about Exam Boards and also write to NASACRE with concern about the content contained in the leaflet for Academies, particularly in relation to the role of SACRE;

·        further discussions regarding Academies, Exam Boards and the role of the Local Authority be discussed at the Open Task Groups in October and December 2012.