Transforming Faith and Education: Daniel Cote Davis' Journey with MBI's MA Programme

As Head of Religious Studies at Downham Market Academy, I lead a department dedicated to fostering the study of Philosophy and Theology in a secular secondary school.

Pursuing the MA in Contemporary Faith and Belief in the Global Context at the Margaret Beaufort Institute has been transformative, providing exceptional professional development that has enriched my teaching and inspired my students.

This programme has equipped me to craft a dynamic curriculum that challenges and inspires, resulting in a remarkable 500% increase in GCSE Religious Studies uptake in just one year. It has also laid the groundwork for introducing A-Level Religious Studies at our school, a project I'm eager to advance.

The MA directly responds to Pope Leo XIII's call to "build bridges" with secular culture. The module on secularization offered profound insights into the secular environment I work in, enabling me to connect with students and encourage them to explore religious perspectives thoughtfully. Similarly, the Philosophy and Theology module has empowered me to engage students in meaningful dialogues on topics like nihilism and scientism, which often shape young people's worldviews. Currently, I'm studying the Mystery of Love module, exploring the interplay between Platonic philosophy and Christian spirituality. This research informs a lecture series I developed for my after-school Philosophy Club, where students eagerly engage with complex ideas.

Through collaboration with MBI professors, I've created two school certificates-one in Philosophy and Theology and another in New Testament Greek and Biblical Hebrew. Remarkably, Key Stage 3 students attend these clubs in their spare time, displaying extraordinary talent. It's inspiring to see them read the Johannine Prologue fluently in its original Greek during a lunchtime session or dive into consciousness and phenomenology for fun after school. Without the MA's support, such achievements would have been unimaginable. I wholeheartedly recommend this course to all Religious Studies teachers seeking to deepen their impact.

Key Factors for Heads of Religious Studies Choosing an MA in Theology

Flexible Scheduling: Can the program accommodate a busy teaching schedule? MBI's MA is part-time, with lectures starting at 3 PM, aligning with the end of the school day. With careful planning, I've balanced teaching and studying over two years.

Professional Relevance: Does the course enhance professional development? MBI's modules focus on contemporary culture and global contexts, allowing me to tailor my studies to curriculum development and personal interests through independent study options.

Impact on Students: Will the program transform students' experiences? My pupils have had life-changing encounters with Religious Studies, driving inspiring growth in subject uptake.

Institutional Reputation: Is the institution credible? MBI, part of the Cambridge Theological Federation, awards degrees credited by East Anglia, ensuring academic excellence.

Inclusivity: Must I be Catholic or religious to enroll? No-MBI's ecumenical approach and engagement with secular culture create a welcoming environment for all.

Join Us for MBI's Postgraduate Open Afternoon!

Discover your next academic step at the Margaret Beaufort Institute's Postgraduate Open Afternoon on 19 June 2025. Explore our Postgraduate programmes, learn bursary opportunities, and connect with faculty to see how MBI can transform your teaching and faith journey.

To register visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1387684484649?aff=oddtdtcreator