Why is Religious Education important in Catholic Schools?

Religious Education is the "core of the core curriculum" in a Catholic school (Pope St John Paul II). Placing RE at the core of the curriculum in Catholic schools helps the school to fulfill its mission to educate the whole person in discerning the meaning of their existence, since "Religious Education is concerned not only with intellectual knowledge but also includes emotional and affective learning. It is in the mystery of the Word made flesh that the mystery of what it is to be human truly becomes clear. Without religious education, students would be deprived of an essential element of their formation and personal development, which helps them attain a vital harmony between faith and culture." (Religious Education Curriculum Directory p4). Furthermore, religiously literate children and young people are able to engage in a fully informed critique of all knowledge, "leading, for example, to an understanding of the relationship between science and religion or history, and between theology, sport and the human body." (Religious Education Curriculum Directory p4).

 Who inspects Catholic schools?

All Catholic schools are subject to a diocesan inspection (which for maintained schools is also a section 48 inspection) at least every five years. These inspections will be carried out by diocesan inspectors appointed by The Bishop in whose diocese the school is situated. (Education Act 2005).

All maintained Catholic schools are also subject to Ofsted inspections at the intervals prescribed by Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector.

SECTION 48 - RE INSPECTION REPORT: Click Here

The school's very strong Catholic identity permeates all aspects of the learning environment of the school. Students enjoy learning RE and finding out about other faiths. Teaching is inspiring and actively engages students in a range of sensory ways. Prayer and worship are central to the Catholic mission and ethos of the school. The school's commitment and contribution to the Common Good and Catholic Social Teaching are outstanding. The outstanding links between the school, parishes and parents lead to a strong partnership that benefits the whole community.