Ofsted report reveals need to transform teaching of Religious Education
Linda Galpin with pupils from Rivermead Primary School at a recent RE-inspired morning held at Christchurch, Woodley
Ofsted’s latest report on religious education in primary and secondary schools has found that RE is no better than satisfactory in many schools and in some cases inadequate. It was revealed that teachers are unsure about what they are trying to teach, and a large number of teachers teaching RE are not qualified in the subject,
Many schools visited did not pay sufficient attention to teaching the core beliefs of Christianity.
Linda Galpin, leader of RE-inspired Woodley explains that “RE inspired” corrects all the defects that have been identified in the Ofsted report. RE-inspired exists to create inspirational RE lessons about the Christian Faith supporting schools in the delivery of the RE curriculum.
For Linda Galpin, being recognised recently by some Year 3 children made her efforts in running RE-inspired Woodley truly worthwhile. Linda explains, “When setting up for a Year 3 lesson I heard a group of children say ‘Oh look it’s RE-inspired – it’s RE this afternoon. Yeah!!!” She explains, “These are children we’ve been working with for the past 3 years. We’re getting known! It’s wonderful to see this enthusiasm for Religious Education!”
A mother of four, Linda is also a trained teacher and she says, “of course, it helps a lot being a teacher. I really enjoy being with the children and seeing them get inspired about RE.” After initial training with the RE-inspired team, based in nearby Earley, Linda took responsibility for running RE-inspired Woodley nearly 3 years ago. She gets great satisfaction in continuing to build relationships with the local schools, teachers and children.
“Last year, nearly 2000 pupils benefited from 35 different REinspired-Woodley lessons delivered to 60 classes, and the numbers will be higher this year as we are welcomed into more schools in Woodley. By creating a network of Christian volunteers who are prepared to go into schools and work with the teachers to deliver RE, the children receive enthusiastic input and hands on lessons,” Linda explains.
Funding for RE-inspired Woodley comes from local churches, grants and one off donations. Linda is always keen to talk to anybody who is interested in being part of her team of volunteers. Full training and support will be given.
For more information, contact Linda Galpin via email - thegalpins@googlemail.com | 