Councillor Esther Amaning

Bexley Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) - Tuesday, 11th November, 2025 6.30 pm

The Bexley Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) met to discuss local and national updates on religious education (RE), including concerns about community tensions and the removal of the Initial Teacher Training (ITT) bursary for RE teachers. The council agreed to publish Ramadan guidance for teachers by February 2026, and members expressed interest in reviewing the Locally Agreed Syllabus (LAS) in January 2026. Members also voiced concerns about rising community tensions and the need for specific support and resources to address hate and promote inclusion in schools.

Bexley Agreed Syllabus Conference - Tuesday, 11th November, 2025 7.30 pm

The Bexley Agreed Syllabus Conference (ASC) convened to formally establish the conference and discuss the review of the Bexley Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education (RE). Councillor Bola Carew was appointed as chairman for the meeting. Members agreed to hold off on making any major changes to the RE curriculum until there is more clarity on the proposal to add RE to the national curriculum.

Council - Wednesday, 5th November, 2025 7.30 pm

The Council of the London Borough of Bexley is scheduled to meet on 5 November 2025. The agenda includes the Leader's report, questions from the public and councillors, and motions deferred from a previous meeting. Councillors will also discuss committee reports on topics ranging from pensions to street cleansing, and will be asked to appoint a new Leader of the Council.

Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 14th October, 2025 7.30 pm

The Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss strengthening the voice of children in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) services, the Bexley S.H.I.E.L.D. annual report, the youth justice strategic plan, and a six-month update on recommendations for a safety valve programme[^1]. The committee also reviewed its work programme for the coming year.

Council - Wednesday, 16th July, 2025 7.30 pm

The Bexley Council meeting on 16 July 2025 included questions from the public and councillors, a debate on policing, and updates from the Leader of the Council and various committees. The council agreed to maintain its policy of not abating pensions upon re-employment, and also agreed to make a cash contribution to the London CIV B Shares Subscription.