The Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education (SACRE) is scheduled to meet on Monday 2 February 2026. The meeting agenda includes discussions on a proposed Code of Conduct for SACRE members, an update on national guidance for Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE), and preparations for the Agreed Syllabus Conference.

SACRE Code of Conduct

A key item for discussion is the proposed approval of a Code of Conduct for members of the SACRE. This code aims to enhance governance and ethical practice by providing guidance on expected behaviour. It is recommended that this code be appended to the SACRE Constitution, with related amendments also proposed. All existing and newly appointed members would be required to sign a declaration to abide by this code. The draft code incorporates the Seven Principles of Public Life, often referred to as the Nolan Principles, which apply to all public office-holders. It also includes specific guidance on SACRE meetings, safeguarding, confidentiality, equality, diversity, inclusion, social media use, and protocols for visiting schools both as a SACRE member and as a representative of a faith community.

Updated National Statutory Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) Guidance

The SACRE is invited to consider and comment on a draft document concerning the updated national statutory guidance on Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE). This guidance, to be issued to primary and secondary schools in the boroughs of Wandsworth, Richmond upon Thames, and Kingston upon Thames, provides support and guidance on the government's revised requirements. The draft document, tentatively titled Getting to Grips Version 2, aims to inform SACREs about the new DfE guidance and how schools will need to comply with it from September 2026. The updated guidance emphasises pupil engagement, transparency with parents, and a focus on positivity and relevance. It also addresses new or expanded content areas reflecting evolving social, online, and safety challenges, and strengthens expectations for parental engagement and transparency.

Agreed Syllabus Conference Preparations

The meeting will include a presentation on the preparations for the Agreed Syllabus Conference. This conference is scheduled to hold its next review in 2027, as the current syllabus will remain effective until September 2028. The AfC Lead School Improvement Adviser and the RE Today Consultant are expected to provide details on these preparations.

Monitoring Standards of RE and Collective Worship

The SACRE will continue its discussion from the previous meeting regarding the monitoring of standards of Religious Education (RE) and collective worship in Kingston schools. This ongoing discussion aims to assess the current state of RE and collective worship provision within the borough's educational institutions.

Other Discussions

Further agenda items include updates on the RE Award, Schools' Faith Walks, and a discussion on the feasibility of organising an Annual Lecture. The SACRE will also receive updates from RE Today, including information on NASACRE, and hear from members on any relevant developments. The meeting schedule for future dates will also be agreed upon.