This week a joint statement by the DfES and major faith groups of England on religious education was published. The statement offers a timely reminder of the importance of religious education and what it contributes to the development of young people. It sets a very visible marker acknowledging a renewed interest in religious education, and a desire to improve standards within religious education as a contribution to social cohesion. The study of religious education in all schools is crucial.  A religiously illiterate population is never going to show the civic virtues of tolerance and understanding which are so desired today.

The non-statutory National Framework for Religious Education needs to be read in conjunction with the Bishops’ Conference Curriculum Directory for Catholic Schools, 1996.  The latter outlines the content and scope of what is taught in religious education in Catholic schools and colleges.  The aim of this teaching in Catholic schools is to promote knowledge and understanding of Catholic life and faith, along with an understanding of the response of faith to ultimate questions about human life, its origin and purpose.

The educational principles of how this is achieved in religious education are consistent whatever the nature of the school.  Within a Catholic school, teaching is rooted firmly within our tradition while remaining open to an awareness of the tenets of other faiths.

To be successful, religious education must include analysis and reflection, critical appreciation of sources and examples, and a real sense of progression through the different stages of education.  As such it requires the unequivocal support of the management of every Catholic school.  It also requires 10% of the length of the taught week for each key stage of compulsory education in Catholic schools. 

The systematic teaching of the Catholic faith in our schools will enable our young people to find their roots in the Catholic tradition and to do so with confidence and pride.  Most importantly, of course, they must discover Jesus Christ as their personal saviour.  As Pope John Paul II often said we must contemplate the face of Christ.  From this understanding comes the capacity to engage in informed dialogue with children and young people of other faiths.  This forms the foundation of their future contribution to social cohesion in their communities.

The Curriculum Directory’s commitment is to the task of forming religiously literate young people who have the knowledge, understanding and skills – appropriate to their age and capacity – to think spiritually, ethically and theologically, and who are aware of the demands of religious commitment in everyday life.  The Joint Statement makes clear that this commitment is shared by the major faith communities and Her Majesty’s Government.

The signing of the statement by the major faith communities and the Government is a significant demonstration of our cooperation and collaboration This appreciation of one another and our mutual respect is part of our hope for the wider society.  We believe that religious education in schools can make a significant contribution to the well being of society.

Oona Stannard

Chief Executive and Director