Any other matters – with prior agreement of the Chair.
Minutes:
Concerns were expressed regarding poor attendances at Ynys Môn SACRE meetings. It was highlighted that one elected member has not attended any SACRE meetings and needs to be encouraged to attend.
Mr Rheinallt Thomas reported that he circulated the Free Church Council of Wales ‘Guidance for Primary and Secondary School Visits’ and ‘Linking Churches and Schools’ to the SACRE. It was noted that the SACRE had received the documents, which are relevant to RVE in the New Curriculum, and to observe Collective Worship in schools. He stated that the documents could also be shared freely if members of the SACRE desired.
The RVE Advisor suggested that the SACRE resume visits to schools to observe Collective Worship and experience the good work that is being carried out in Anglesey schools, which is important in the context of the New Curriculum. It was suggested that a timeframe to reconvene Collective Worship visits to schools be discussed in the Head Teachers’ Strategic Panel’s next meeting on 23 March 2023. Mr Owain Roberts reported that schools are in the process of delivering the New Curriculum and stated that he would be happy to arrange a visit for SACRE members to attend Ysgol Cybi in due course.
The RVE Advisor reported that Estyn have recently undertaken inspections in the following schools, which will be discussed in the SACRE’s next meeting - Ysgol Cybi, Holyhead; Ysgol Gynradd Beaumaris; St Mary’s, Holyhead; Ysgol Uwchradd Bodedern; Ysgol Caergiliog; Ysgol Esceifiog, Gaerwen. It was noted that further inspections will take place this week at Ysgol Goronwy Owen, Benllech and Ysgol Moelfre. The RE Advisor stated that four non-maintained settings were also inspected this term - Cylch Henblas, Cylch Rhoscolyn, Cylch Kingsland and Caban Enfys. It was noted that the inspections were successful, and two case studies followed on from these inspections. It was further noted that as RVE will now be taught to children from 3 to16 years of age, it may be an option for the SACRE to consider visiting those settings in future.
The Chair reported that Mrs Gwyneth Hughes, the RVE Advisor will be retiring soon. The Chair, on behalf of the SACRE, thanked Mrs Hughes for her guidance, hard work and commitment to the SACRE since 2018, and wished her every happiness in her retirement.
Mr Rheinallt Thomas reiterated the Chair’s words and reported that it is not easy for people who are not experts in the field of RE to cope with all the elements involved. He stated that the SACRE have been very impressed in the way Mrs Hughes has undertaken the role.
Mrs Hughes reported that it has been a privilege to work for the Council as an Education Officer since 2017 and will miss her involvement with the SACRE since 2018.
RESOLVED:-
• To note the information presented.
• That the RE Advisor raises the issue of a timeframe for reconvening visits to schools to observe Collective Worship in the Operational Panel’s next meeting.