Agenda item

5.1 Any more RE info from schools to help with the new syllabus? – David T

5.2 Any more conversations with schools about Collective Worship? – David T

5.3 Secondary & Primary Networks – David R, Amanda B

5.1  . The Chairman queried whether SACRE members had held any direct communication with schools since the previous meeting. The members of SACRE responded that there had been no such communication, but that representations were ongoing.

5.2  The Chairman stated that they would have a meeting with the Collective Worship Lead at Kennet School, and the Downs School. The Chairman stated that they would convene them both to discuss collective worship. The Chairman noted that it had been difficult to find the person responsible for collective worship in secondary schools. The Chairman noted that they had not been able to communicate with the Willink School in regards to collective worship. Chris Ward agreed that communication with schools regarding collective worship had often been difficult.

In response to a query from Robin Launder, the Chairman clarified that  the Langtree School did not fall within the West Berkshire catchment area.

Robin Launder asked SACRE if there could be a list of the Schools in the West Berkshire catchment area. Sadie Owens (Principal Democratic Services Officer) responded that a list could be provided to Robin Launder. The Chairman stated that the list would be accessible on the West Berkshire Council website.

Councillor Vickers asked the Chairman if a copy of the list of responsibilities regarding SACRE members to schools would be made available. The Chairman stated that the list would be made available to all members.

5.3 The Chairman handed over to David Rees. David Rees presented an update on the Secondary and Primary Networks with the following information:

-       Secondary Networks would take place on 14 March 2024

-       Primary Networks would take place on 20 March 2024

-       David Rees stated that he would report to SACRE updates from the Primary and Secondary networks.

The Chairman queried if additional communication with schools had increased attendance at the Primary and Secondary Networks. David Rees responded that he would update the Chairman once he had attended the Networks.

Amanda Bedding stated that they would attend a BDLP Primary Network on 5 March, focussing on the proposed Locally agreed syllabus review. Amanda Bedding stated that they would provide an update to SACRE.

Councillor Dick queried whether the new contact information gathered by members of SACRE from schools had been collated. The Chairman responded that they had collected and collated the contact information and shared it with David Rees in order for them to email the correct people. The Chairman stated that they wanted to keep the list of contacts up to date.    

Councillor Vickers questioned whether contact details had been provided through the Networks which could help SACRE members contact schools. The Chairman responded that they had not seen that. David Rees suggested that a central database be held by the Clerk, with updates sent to the Clerk from members of SACRE. David Rees stated that they would send the contact details that they had to the Clerk.

SACRE resolved Clerk to hold a central database of contact information for schools in relation to religious education. Members would send updates to the Clerk.

Mel Higgs highlighted the turnover of Subject Coordinators and worship leaders. Mel Higgs suggested copying in the School Office when sending out information.