The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) of Northumberland Council was scheduled to discuss the future of Religious Education (RE) in schools, including potential changes to its national curriculum status and the provision of training for teachers. The meeting's agenda also included updates on SACRE's ongoing work, membership, and future meeting dates.

Curriculum and Assessment Review

A significant item on the agenda was the discussion and response to the Curriculum and Assessment Review. This review, detailed in the report Building a world-class curriculum for all, includes recommendations for Religious Education. The report suggests that RE should be added to the national curriculum, proposing a staged approach. This would involve a task and finish group to consider the legislative framework and implementation, including the potential removal of the statutory requirement for learners in school sixth forms to study RE. A subsequent formal consultation on the detailed content of a draft RE curriculum and any proposed legislative changes would follow. The report highlights that RE is currently a basic curriculum subject, not part of the national curriculum, and that its provision is not always adequate. The review also notes that the legislative framework for RE has remained largely unchanged since 1944.

Work in Progress

Under the Work in Progress section, several key areas were scheduled for discussion. An update was expected on contacts with schools and the provision of RE in-service training, with a reminder of the website link for resources: www.northumberlandeducation.co.uk/RE. Members were also due to review and discuss the Northumberland SACRE Development Plan for 2025/26. Progress on a survey sent to schools was to be reported, and the council was scheduled to discuss and agree on a SACRE Excellence Award. Additionally, the SACRE was to consider the support it can offer regarding Collective Worship in schools. Updates on SACRE vacancies and discussions regarding the Holocaust Memorial Day event were also on the agenda. Finally, members were to note future training dates and discuss any completed training sessions, with upcoming training including sessions on being an effective SACRE clerk, using OAK National Academy resources, and general SACRE induction.

RE in Schools and Examination Results

The council was scheduled to receive and discuss data pertaining to Religious Education in schools and examination results.

Future Meetings

Members were expected to agree on the dates for future SACRE meetings for the academic years 2025-26 and 2026-27.

Other Business

The agenda also included provisions for the election of a Vice-Chair, confirmation of previous minutes, and a section for any urgent business that might arise. The council was also to receive an update on membership and discuss matters arising from previous meetings.