The Herefordshire Agreed Syllabus for RE runs from 2020-2025. It is a legal requirement for Local Authorities to review its syllabus every five years.

Stephen Pett presented a brief overview of the syllabus options available.

Councillor John Stone noted that there are advantages and disadvantages to all syllabus models, however, it was felt that it would be sensible to readopt the RE Today model.

Tracy Westlake added that changing the syllabus would present further challenges to teachers and that to readopt the syllabus would help with continuity.

Councillor Justine Peberdy asked the teacher representatives if there were any shortcomings that had not been addressed in the amendments proposed to the current syllabus.

Tracy Westlake responded that schools struggle with a rigorous assessment of the syllabus. It was noted that RE Today and NATRE are publishing other resources that back up that syllabus which is more helpful for teacher confidence.

Lou Barker added that it is easy to make adaptations to the syllabus on a school level to help make it easier for teachers.

Stephen Pett confirmed that the intention is to build on the strengths of the syllabus which is beginning to be embedded in addition to bringing in some of the best new thinking.

The Chair added that by adopting the syllabus it would hopefully allow a longer-term view to be considered when considering the next change to the syllabus.

The Chair confirmed that SACRE, by unanimous agreement, is in favour of option 1) re-licensing with RE Today, to their updated syllabus, for the next five years.

Resolved: That the Board is in favour of re-licensing with RE Today, to their updated syllabus, for the next five years.