Clarke: Promoting religious education

The government has set out the first ever national framework for religious education in schools.

Developed by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, the framework is designed to ensure all pupils receive high quality religious education irrespective of where they live, their social background, culture, race, religion and gender.

It sets out ways children can develop their knowledge, understanding and skills and suggests levels of attainment that they should achieve.

The Department for Education and Skills maintains that good quality RE "actively contributes" to pupils' spiritual, moral,
social and cultural development.

Commenting on the announcement, Charles Clarke said: "There is a legal requirement for all schools to teach religious education. I want to ensure that standards are consistently high so that every pupil benefits.

"Children have a right, and indeed, should expect to be told about what is important to their friends who may hold different beliefs to their own."

Clarke went on to call on faith groups to "seize this opportunity to develop their own resources that enhance understanding of their faith, and their response to world issues".

"Religious education can transform pupils' assessment of themselves and others, and their understanding of the wider world," he added.

"I see it as vital in widening inclusion, understanding diversity and promoting tolerance."