To receive an update from Tracy Westlake.

Tracy Westlake provided a verbal update on the last network meeting that had been held in September 2024.  The key points included:

1.           Seventeen schools were represented, including some in Shropshire and Worcestershire.

2.           There was a need to raise awareness of the resources available through NATRE (National Association of Teachers of Religious Education), particularly for ECTs (Early Career Teachers).

3.           The focus of the session was the ‘School Linking Programme’, run by The Faith & Belief Forum, which matched schools with different demographics.  It was intended that a trial, ‘Virtual Linking’ project would take place during the current academic year, perhaps with one physical meeting of the two schools at a mutually convenient venue.  The potential benefits of exposing pupils to diverse communities and beliefs, and education settings, were noted. 

It was commented that the project could be informed by the experience of Stretton Sugwas CE Academy in setting up virtual links with schools internationally.

4.           Participants made positive comments about the conference and the resources provided by RE Today.

5.           The network discussed how to maximise the value from visits through planning and clarity of purpose.

6.           In response to a question, it was reported that network participants did not have anything to add on the new syllabus.

7.           It was noted that Kingsland CE Primary School would be holding an interfaith day in 2025.