The Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) met on 6th March 2024 to discuss various aspects of Religious Education (RE) and collective worship in Newham schools. Key discussions included the progress of the 'My Newham' student photography project, the annual report for 2022-23, and the adoption of the National RE Standard.

Student RE Report: 'My Newham' Photography Project

Catriona Martin presented an update on the 'My Newham' project, where students are using photography to explore diversity within the borough. Students have been trained by a local photographer, Meg Khan, and have visited various places of worship, including a Gurdwara and St Anthony's Church, to capture images that represent community values. The project aims to challenge religious stereotypes. Catriona Martin confirmed that the students' photography will be made available. Claire Clinton noted that future initiatives would require a greater focus on grant funding, and Councillor Lofthouse inquired about costs. Catriona Martin stated that staffing costs and other practicalities amount to approximately £7,000.

New Annual Report for Newham 22-23 and Action Points

Claire Clinton outlined the need for formal actions arising from the annual report. Discussions included a collective worship course for schools looking to improve their provision, with a suggestion to run a webinar on the topic. Another suggestion was to host a webinar, potentially recorded, on new advice regarding prayer and reflection rooms in schools. Claire Clinton also highlighted the strong exam results in RE for Newham students, noting that the borough ranked third nationally for GCSE RS entries in 2023 and achieved 40% higher A-Level A* and A grades than the rest of the country. It was agreed that letters would be sent to schools congratulating them on their success. Claire Clinton will also contact Ruth Everett regarding the need for additional Church of England representatives.

National RE Standard Discussion

Claire Clinton discussed the National RE Standard, launched in June 2022, which schools began using in September 2022. Feedback from schools on the agreed syllabus has been largely positive. Claire Clinton emphasised the importance for SACRE members to review this feedback. The Religious Education Council of England and Wales was mentioned as a charity that acts as an advisory board to the government, bringing together professional religious groups. The challenge of securing funding for RE was noted as a point raised by Ofsted. The National RE Standard is a non-statutory document that has been endorsed by many organisations. The appendices of the document were highlighted as a useful compilation of relevant legislation.

2023-24 SACRE Priorities

Claire Clinton confirmed that the SACRE priorities for 2023-24 are being worked on, and no questions were raised regarding this item.

Ofsted Annual Report Findings on RE

Claire Clinton reported that she and Taranum Afshan had prepared a summary of the Ofsted deep dive report on RE.

RE Hubs Update

Claire Clinton encouraged members to visit the RE Hubs website and invited faith representatives to join free training sessions.

Monitoring RE & CW Forms Sign Off

Claire Clinton asked for any further questions regarding the monitoring forms. Edward Hoyle suggested adding a question about specific training needs. Claire Clinton agreed to include a request for schools to list desired training opportunities.

Re-nomination of Saquat Ali as Treasurer for NASACRE

Members proposed the re-nomination of Saquat Ali as treasurer for NASACRE, which was seconded by Councillor Jane Lofthouse.

Forums of Faiths

In the absence of Anne Easter, Claire Clinton reported on recent activities. A meeting focused on peacemaking, with a SACRE member leading discussions on how different groups can contribute to peace, particularly in light of the situation in the Middle East. Claire Clinton also mentioned attending a police interfaith brunch.

NASACRE Annual Conference

Claire Clinton announced that the NASACRE annual conference would be held in York on 20th May and asked if any members wished to attend.

Dates for the Next Year and Venues

The dates and venues for the next year are to be confirmed.

Date of Next Meeting

The next meeting is scheduled for 19th June 2024.