Ep 28: RE in Wales: a chance for fundamental change
Posted: Thu, 18th Jun 2020
How much progress will the Welsh government make with its proposed reforms to RE? In this episode, Emma Park speaks to Stephen Evans, CEO of the NSS, and Alastair Lichten, head of education, for an update.
Encouragingly the subject's name is to be changed to 'Religion, Values and Ethics', to reflect a more pluralist and critical approach. But the proposed abolition of parents' right to withdraw their children is more concerning. Faith schools will still be able to teach RVE 'in line with the tenets of their faith', but will be obliged to offer a secular alternative if parents expressly choose it.
Do these proposals go far enough? And should religious education continue to be a separate subject that is compulsory for all students up until 16? Join Emma and her guests for comment and analysis.
Follow Emma on Twitter: @DrEmmaPark
Watch this episode on YouTube | Direct MP3 Link | Transcripts
Notes
NSS response to RVE proposals in Wales
Will Wales lead the way in reforming RE? – Stephen Evans, 2 June 2020
Should lessons on sex and religion take parents' wishes into account? –– Emma Park, 12 March 2020
We publish our podcast to enable exploration of subjects of interest to NSS members and supporters. Guests' views may not always align with those of the NSS.
Related Campaigns
Rethink RE
We need a new subject to teach children about worldviews, citizenship and ethics.
