RE and the National Curriculum – What Does It Mean for Schools?
You may have seen the recent announcement that Religious Education is set to become part of the National Curriculum for the first time. While there are still details to come, it's a significant moment for the subject and one that many people in the RE community have been working towards for some time.
Whenever there is a major curriculum announcement, it's natural for teachers to wonder, "What does this mean for us?" The good news is that schools in North Tyneside are already in a good position.
Already on-track
Over the last few years, North Tyneside Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE) has been preparing for the changing landscape of RE. Through our Agreed Syllabus, and ongoing work with the RE Resources Centre at Church House, we have been developing approaches that closely reflect the direction of national discussions around Religion and Worldviews.
In many ways, schools are already doing much of what is being talked about nationally. Our agreed syllabus encourages pupils to explore a range of religious and non-religious worldviews, think critically, ask meaningful questions and develop a deeper understanding of the diverse society in which they live. These ideas are at the heart of proposals for the future of the subject.
Help to shape things
As a SACRE, we will continue to keep a close eye on developments and share updates as more information becomes available. We know that curriculum change can sometimes feel daunting, but teachers should feel reassured that they are not starting from scratch. The foundations are already in place. You can help to shape the additional guidance that we are currently creating to support teachers to deliver the agreed syllabus before the RE National Curriculum is published. You can find out more about being part of this here.
Most importantly, this announcement recognises something we have always believed: RE matters. It helps young people make sense of the world around them, understand different beliefs and perspectives, and navigate life in an increasingly diverse society. The fact that the subject will now have a place within the National Curriculum is a positive step forward for RE and for the pupils we teach.
Looking Ahead
North Tyneside SACRE will continue to monitor developments closely and provide timely guidance and support as further information becomes available. We are committed to ensuring that schools and teachers feel informed, prepared and confident throughout this process.
This is an exciting moment for Religious Education, and North Tyneside schools are well placed to embrace the opportunities it will bring.
A date for your diary
The next North Tyneside RE network is taking place on 24th September 2026 at The RE Resource Centre, Church House, North Shields from 4:00pm. We'll share any updates and there'll be lots of opportunities to discuss the changes then.
Article by
Janice Gibson
School Improvement Officer
Teaching, Learning, Curriculum and Assessment
janice.gibson@northtyneside.gov.uk
