RE Conference: Delivers Insightful Inspiration
This year’s conference recently took place at the country house setting of Mere Court Hotel near Knutsford.
The theme was around Exploring a Worldviews Approach - aimed to give time and space to consider a number of scientific based worldviews.
RE leaders from primary schools gathered to listen to thought provoking presentations from a mix of keynote talks and interactive sessions.
We heard from the lived experience of those who hold humanist and sentientist views, and the compatibility of those who embrace both science and Christianity, all giving us challenging ideas to incorporate into the RE curriculum.
Jamie Woodhouse, representing Sentientism, opened the conference with a compelling presentation introducing Sentientism’s ethical view which prioritises the moral consideration of all sentient beings, including humans and other animals.
Next, Bethan Fowler from Understanding Humanism shared insights into Humanist philosophy, and practical guidance with how big questions and ideas can be communicated effectively to children.
The keynote speakers concluded with Michael Harvey and Abi Falkus from God and the Big Bang, presenting their work that explores the compatibility of science and faith, providing valuable strategies for helping children understand how science and faith can work together. These sessions sparked meaningful reflection and deep conversations, offering perspectives to support and diversify our RE teaching practice.
We were also fortunate to hear more about Christian Ethics of Farmed Animal Welfare, learning how a number of schools from the Diocese, including Smallwood Primary, have embraced and integrated the project within school and their involvement with creating RE resources for other schools to benefit. Jen Stratford, from Chester Cathedral demonstrated amazing ways science have been integrated with faith learning and the workshops on offer at the Cathedral.
Feedback from the day has been positive and insightful:
“I didn’t know anything prior to today. Very thought provoking. A fantastic way to add philosophical depth to our curriculum. ”
“Really interesting, hadn’t considered it to be so profoundly positive as an idea – can see lots of ways it could be brought into the RE curriculum. ”
“Absolutely loved it! Really deep thinking and questioning. So helpful to consider the many vital connections between science and religion/faith – can’t wait to try in school”
“A super day, really enjoyed today, lots to digest to see how to bring into school. ”
“Thought provoking – the importance of human nature, respect and compassion.”
Overall the day was inspiring and deepened our understanding of diverse worldviews, enriching our subject knowledge to support and develop RE into the curriculum.
Save the date for our Senior Leaders Conference taking place on the
20th November 2025