New RE series "a precious resource"
A new RE teaching resource has been warmly welcomed by Archbishop Cormac Murphy-O'Connor, Archbishop Vincent Nichols, teachers and students.
Aimed at key stage three year 8 pupils, and meeting with the requirements of the Bishops' Conference statement on RE published last May, the Truth is part of an integrated series: The Way, the Truth and the Life, published by CTS. It consists of a full colour student's book, a teacher's book and audio CD.
The material was written and devised in collaboration with teachers throughout the Archdiocese of Westminster, by Ged Clapson, Mary O'Grady and Therese Piper. It covers scripture study and church history, as well as examining the church's prophetic role today, and faith in action in areas such as homelessness and poverty. There are sections on historical figures including Mother Theresa, Oscar Romero and Dorothy Day.
Speaking at the launch on Wednesday at Vaughn House, Westminster, Archbishop Cormac said: "I am very pleased that we have such a good range of resources now for the teaching of RE. Nothing is more important that seeing our schools well-resourced."
Archbishop Vincent Nichols, who chairs the Bishops' Department for Education and Formation said he welcomed the new resource.
He said: "Not long ago I was speaking with the Ofsted head of research team who was analysing the latest data from schools. She told me that Catholic schools, in particular primary schools, are doing generally better than the non-Catholic schools. On average they are one term ahead in all subjects - in spite of devoting part of each school week to RE. She told me she believed these high standards were directly related to studying this subject. She confirmed what we have long felt - supporting children's spiritual and moral development helps them progress in all other areas."
Archbishop Vincent said he also wanted to point out the video about the Mass which goes with the first year eight book. "He wasn't well at the time but you can see his great transparent faith. The fact that we had the Cardinal makes it a most precious resource."
Olga Pupynin, a teacher from St Anne's in Enfield said: ""This is an exceptionally good resource. It is well structured and supported. It is also very enjoyable. The pupils love it."
Another teacher echoed these views. He added: "For the first time we have an RE syllabus which is on a par with the best books in any other subject."
For more information on The Way, the Truth and the Life, visit the CTS website through our Links page.
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