The ‘Responding to Religions and Life’ syllabus was the result of a review by several groups including SACRE (Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education) and teachers in East Sussex schools. It aims to allow children and young people to explore some of the big questions in life and help prepare them for life in a diverse society.
The syllabus was approved by Councillor Rupert Simmons, Lead Member for Learning and School Effectiveness. "This carefully considered syllabus recognises our multi-denominational and multi-religious society and teaches young people respect for others. Religious education, a valuable academic subject in its own right, gives young people a chance to look at a whole range of human experience and consider what is valuable in life. If young people are to be encouraged to become active citizens, it is important they gain an understanding of how beliefs and values are put into practice.”
All East Sussex County Council maintained schools will use the new syllabus. Church schools are also giving it their backing and will be adopting the syllabus throughout their schools.
SACRE Chairman, Councillor John Garvican said: "Religious education is important for the development of the whole person. This syllabus is clear, concise and thoughtful and has been unanimously endorsed by all SACRE members. I have no hesitation in recommending it for East Sussex schools.”
For more information and for a copy of the syllabus, visit www.eastsussex.gov.uk/education/religion
Notes to editors
Since 1988 local education authorities (LEAs) have had a duty to establish a Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education (SACRE). Religious education is a statutory part of the basic curriculum for all pupils, but it is not a National Curriculum subject. Instead it is a local responsibility of the LEA through its SACRE.
The SACRE advises the LEA on matters relating to collective worship in community schools and on religious education given in accordance with the locally agreed syllabus. The SACRE monitors the effectiveness and appropriateness of the agreed syllabus, which is formally reviewed every five years.
It also publishes support materials, approves a programme of training for teachers and sponsors or supports other projects which it deems to be consistent with its responsibility to promote religious education and spiritual, moral, social and cultural education in schools.
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