Agenda item

To present Religious Education self-evaluation reports by the following schools:-

•  Ysgol Y Talwrn

•  Ysgol Pentraeth

•  Ysgol Gynradd Amlwch

The schools’ self-evaluation reports by Ysgol Y Talwrn, Ysgol Gymunedol Pentraeth and Ysgol Gynradd Amlwch were presented for the SACRE’s consideration.

It was noted that the standard of teaching attained in RE in the above schools is either adequate or good. 

The SACRE showed concern that self-evaluation reports are not checked by a professional body, and there is no means of support for schools who might need assistance to improve and raise standards.

The Chair proposed that he visit Ysgol Y Talwrn to observe Collective Worship, and view the work carried out by pupils at the school.

Mrs Mefys Jones-Edwards gave a verbal report on the self-evaluation report she has prepared for Ysgol Syr Thomas Jones, entitled the Faculty of Humanities.  She highlighted the following 5 key points from her report in relation to RE:-

1.  Standards 

•   KS4 and KS5 results are very good, with each pupil attaining a qualification in the subject;

    •   KS3 results are adequate to good, as they vary with different groups;

    •   Standards in relation to boys need to improve, as boys are currently underperforming across the island;

    •   KS5 standards need to improve in the Philosophy Unit;

    •   Literacy is very good, due to planning that has taken place to improve

          oral and written skills. 

    •   Numeracy and IT skills only need to be developed as necessary.

2.  Well-being and Attitude to Learning

    •   Pupil participation in lessons is very good; they enjoy the subject;

    •   Teachers and pupils have a good relationship in RE lessons;

    •   Pupils’ attitude to more independent learning needs to be developed,

        and is one of the 12 areas of the new curriculum. 

3.  Teaching and Learning Experiences

    •   RE provision as regards lessons, books and speaking to learners is

        good;

    •   Pupils benefit from experiences through visits;    

    •   Skills and information on understanding Christianity and other faiths are tailored well within the work plans.

4.  Care, Support and Guidance

    •  Teachers question learners when providing feedback to pupils, which

        require sharp responses, which in turn improves the standard of work in

          the classroom;

    •   Dialogue between teachers and pupils has improved;

    •   Collective worship sessions are held daily in Ysgol Syr Thomas Jones.

5.  Leadership and Management  

    •   Strategic co-working is taking place with other schools regarding GCSEs

         and A levels, resulting in improved collaboration;

    •   Self-evaluation happens annually in the school, and the following year’s Improvement Plan is based on information provided in the schools’ self-evaluation report;

    •   Each member of staff within the school has an opportunity to develop

         professionally;

    •    Need to share good practice in preparation for the new curriculum, as

          there will be obvious changes.

The Chair thanked the teachers involved in preparing and presenting the self-evaluation reports to the SACRE.

RESOLVED:-

•   To note the RE self-evaluation reports presented. 

•   That the Chair contacts the Head Teacher of Ysgol Y Talwrn to arrange a visits to the school to observe a Collective Worship session and the work carried out by learners at the school.

Action:  As noted above.