To consider matters to inform the revised syllabus; a draft model will be circulated to SACRE members separately.

A confidential, draft model for the Agreed Syllabus had been circulated to SACRE members in advance of the meeting.  Stephen Pett introduced the document, highlighting proposed new elements, and invited attendees to contribute local information for inclusion in the working document; Mark Harrington was thanked for detailed comments and suggestions already provided.

The principal points of the discussion included:

1.           It was intended that new forewords would be prepared by the Chairperson and by Herefordshire Council.

2.           The inclusion of ‘learning tool’ icons, to identify ways of knowing / disciplinary approaches, was welcomed.

3.           Attendees suggested and considered which places of worship, and other places special to pupils and their families, could be included as examples of places to visit within the county, or within reasonable travelling distance.  Attendees also shared different visit experiences.  Acknowledging challenges around travel costs, it was suggested that links could be provided to online searchable databases to help schools to identify their closest places of worship.

4.           It was noted that the document would include local census data.

5.           It was reported that matters to explore at the launch conference would include sample long-term plans and new units of work.

The Chairperson requested that any further contributions on this topic be provided before Monday 18 November 2024.