Bracknell

Children at local Bracknell schools will expand their knowledge of religion and faith communities thanks to a revised religious education syllabus launched last week (July 7).

The launch followed a review carried out by Bracknell Forest Borough Council along with the other five Berkshire unitary authorities of the religious education (RE) syllabus taught in schools.

A series of consultation events held across Berkshire over the past year brought together education professionals and members of faith communities to look at how the content and methods of teaching RE in schools could be improved.

The results of the consultation have been used to shape the new syllabus, key changes to which include a thematic approach to learning about religions and a fresh framework for teachers to aid lesson planning.

The syllabus was discussed with headteachers, teachers, school governors and education professionals at a seminar held at the Education Centre, Easthampstead Park on Friday.

Seminar delegates learnt more about the detail of the syllabus, how it links with the national curriculum and how it meets government guidelines.

Gordon Anderson, Chair of the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) for Bracknell Forest commended the document and encouraged delegates to start implementing the syllabus from September 2006.

Tony Eccleston, Director of Bracknell Education, Children's Services and Libraries said: "Our new syllabus will provide children with a sound basic education of Christianity and the other main world religions.

"The focus is on teaching in a fresh, vibrant way that will equip them with an understanding of the role of faith in modern society and how it impacts on communities here and around the world."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council