Comment from the National Association of Teachers of RE and the Religious Education Council of England and Wales

“The timing of the Ofsted report on Religious Education sends a powerful message to all those with an interest in the status of RE. As only the second subject review after science and the first Arts and Humanities subject in the schedule, it is a clear indication of the importance of Religious Education as a discrete subject, and the need for a broad and balanced curriculum.

“The review spells out the essential role that RE plays in every young person’s academic and personal development and emphasises the value that an education in religious and non-religious worldviews provides in later life.”

Professor Trevor Cooling, Chair, Religious Education Council of England and Wales

“The need for high quality teaching in all schools for all pupils, both from an academic perspective and for each pupil’s personal development, is abundantly clear in the Ofsted report.

“It sends out a strong reminder to all school leaders of the requirement to teach the subject at all key stages, including sixth form, and to consider the professional development and subject knowledge needed for teachers to deliver a high quality RE curriculum.”

Katie Freeman, Chair, National Association of Teachers of RE

The Ofsted Research Review can be found here.

For media enquiries and images please contact:

Colin Hallmark, 3:nine Communications:
Tel: 0207 736 1888; 07745 914170

Jonathon Bright, NATRE

Tel: 0121 415 3970 / 0121 4583313

National Association of Teachers of RE

NATRE is the subject teacher association for RE professionals in primary and secondary schools and higher education, providing a representative voice at national level and publications and courses to promote professional development. NATRE’s Executive consists of a majority of serving teachers from primary and secondary schools who are elected for a three-year term of service.

Religious Education Council of England and Wales

Established in 1973, the Religious Education Council of England and Wales (REC) brings together over 60 national organisations. These comprise academic and professional associations specialising in religions and religious education, as well as individual religion and belief organisations inclusive of the range of faith communities found nationally, including Humanists UK.