The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) of Richmond upon Thames Council met on Thursday 27 June 2024 to discuss various topics, including the Richmond SACRE website audit, the findings of a sub-group report, and the inclusion of non-religious worldviews in the curriculum. Decisions were made to update the SACRE website and to incorporate Sentientism into the religious education syllabus.

Richmond SACRE Website Audit

The council reviewed the Richmond SACRE website audit - discussion document. The audit highlighted several areas for improvement, including outdated content and the need for a more user-friendly interface. Councillors agreed that updating the website is crucial for better community engagement and transparency. One member noted, A modern, accessible website is essential for keeping our community informed and involved (Councillor). The decision was made to proceed with the recommended updates.

Sub-group Findings Report

The findings of a sub-group were presented in the Sub-group findings report 27 June. The report focused on the effectiveness of current religious education practices and suggested several enhancements. Key recommendations included increased teacher training and the introduction of more diverse religious perspectives. The council decided to adopt these recommendations, with one member stating, Incorporating a wider range of religious views will enrich our students' understanding and promote inclusivity (Councillor).

Inclusion of Non-religious Worldviews

The council discussed the Sentientism report and the RE Today - IW2 Nonreligious Worldviews - Sentientism Section. Sentientism, a worldview that grants moral consideration to all sentient beings, was proposed for inclusion in the religious education syllabus. The council debated the merits of this addition, with some members arguing it would provide a more comprehensive educational experience, while others expressed concerns about the complexity of the concept. Ultimately, the council voted in favour of including Sentientism, aligning with their commitment to broadening the scope of religious education.

OFSTED R.E Report

The council briefly reviewed the OFSTED R.E Report, which provided insights into the current state of religious education in the borough. The report was generally positive but highlighted areas for improvement, such as the need for more interactive and engaging teaching methods. The council acknowledged these points and agreed to consider them in future planning.

NASACRE Briefings

The council also reviewed NASACRE Briefing 38 and NASACRE BRIEFING 39. These briefings provided updates on national trends and best practices in religious education. The council found the information valuable and agreed to incorporate some of the suggested practices into their own strategies.

Forward Plan

Finally, the council discussed the SACRE FORWARD PLAN March 2024-April 2025. The plan outlines the council's objectives and initiatives for the upcoming year, including further curriculum development and community outreach efforts. The council approved the plan, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and adaptation to meet the needs of the community.