Statement from the Catholic Independent Schools' Conference (CISC) on including Religious Education in the national curriculum

Sarah Barreto, General Secretary of the Catholic Independent Schools’ Conference (CISC), said: "Although these proposals will not directly affect Catholic independent schools, any improvement in the quality and status of Religious Education in state-funded schools is to be welcomed. Raising standards in Religious Education would not only benefit pupils in non-Church schools, but also wider society as a whole.

"High-quality Religious Education enables young people to engage thoughtfully with questions of belief, meaning, ethics and human flourishing. It develops religious literacy, critical thinking and mutual understanding, equipping pupils to navigate an increasingly diverse and complex world with wisdom and respect. We therefore welcome measures that seek to strengthen this important academic discipline for the benefit of all young people."

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