WHAT MAKES A GOOD SACRE MEMBER?

Going through the papers for the last SACRE meeting (at Uplands Primary, Tuesday 27 September), I come upon this set of questions fort a workshop activity. I thought it would be interesting to post it on the blog in its own right, rather than risk it being buried in a report on the last SACRE meeting . Those attending that meeting were asked to rank our top five from the list. None of us got anywhere near that in the time allowed.

What makes a good SACRE member?

In your pairs or groups consider how you would rate each of these characteristics of a good SACRE member and agree on a ranking for them, the most important first and the least significant last, discarding any that you think are inappropriate.

Our group got no farther than attempting to take out those points that would work for being a good member of just about anything - and trying to find what would be distinctive to SACRE. I wonder how you'd fare if you did the same, faithful reader - or if you'd have your own effective approach to the task.

1. A good SACRE member is open to all views and ideas
2. A good SACRE member seeks to understand the views of other members, rather than simply promoting his / her own agenda
3. A good SACRE member is willing to contribute to discussions
4. A good SACRE member has a clear understanding of his or her SACRE role
5. A good SACRE member is committed to SCRE meetings
6. A good SACRE member is well informed
7. A good SACRE member can work harmoniously with other members
8. A good SACRE member has time to spend in school
9. A good SACRE member listens more than he or she speaks
10. A good SACRE member is keen and able to communicate with teachers and pupils
11. A good SACRE member takes an active participative approach, following lines of enquiry of personal interest
12. A good SACRE member supports and encourages local schools to aspire to high standards in RE and collective worship
13. A good SACRE member is someone who has faith in her or himself
14. A good SACRE member shows dedication to pupils’ learning
15. A good SACRE member is confident about everything to do with RE and Collective Worship in schools
16. A good SACRE member takes an active part in the meeting
17. A good SACRE member is able to offer relevant experiences
18. A good SACRE member understands the positive value of RE and Collective Worship in schools
19. A good SACRE member has a sound knowledge of the relevant law
20. A good SACRE member is aware of local faith communities
21. A good SACRE member has the ability and confidence to question perceived wisdom (I think that should be “received wisdom”)
22. A good SACRE member is aware of the key RE and Collective Worship issues facing schools
23. A good SACRE member is a bridge between SACRE and local school