Research

Faith, RPE, Religion, Current Affairs

In the Faith, RPE section, research links will explore the integration of faith and religion in education and also wider practice (including current affairs).

How to Think about Religious Schools: Principles and Policies by Matthew Clayton, Andrew Mason, and Adam Swift

This book is a key resource for understanding the public policy debates surrounding faith schools. The authors, who are political theorists, provide a clear framework for analysing the arguments for and against state-funded religious schools. They explore principles such as parental rights, the state's interest in education, and the well-being of the child. The book is especially valuable for its structured approach, which allows readers to understand why people with different perspectives—a qualified defender of religious schools, an opponent, and a defender of parents' rights—can reach different conclusions. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the philosophical and political dimensions of faith-based education.

Religion and Belief Literacy: Reconnecting a Chain of Learning by Adam Dinham

This book addresses the "crisis of religion and belief literacy" in contemporary society. Dinham argues that our inability to engage with diverse religions and beliefs is a significant societal problem and that education at every level needs to respond. The book is highly relevant to RPE and curriculum policy, as it provides a framework for how we can build better religious and belief literacy. It's a comprehensive resource for academics, practitioners, and policymakers who want to understand the muddled policy and practice around religion and belief, and to find a way forward for more informed public and shared settings.

In Good Faith: Schools, Religion and Public Funding by Marie Parker-Jenkins, Dimitra Hartas, and Barrie A. Irving

Published in 2005, this book remains a relevant and timely examination of the issues surrounding state-funded religious schools, particularly in the UK. The authors challenge the idea that faith schools are inherently positive, prompting readers to consider the implications of their existence for a multi-ethnic and multi-faith society. It offers a historical and legal context for the establishment of these schools and delves into practical issues like curriculum, social justice, and special educational needs within a faith-based setting. It is an excellent resource for anyone looking to understand the historical context and ongoing debates about funding and accountability in faith education policy.

Quaker Education: A Sourcebook edited by J. William Frost

This book offers a comprehensive overview of the history, philosophy, and practices of Quaker education. It's a collection of primary sources, essays, and articles that span centuries, providing deep insight into the core tenets of Quakerism—such as the belief in "that of God in everyone"—and how they have been applied in educational settings. The book explores the Quaker commitment to peace, social justice, and the development of the whole person, making it an excellent resource for understanding how a specific faith tradition informs pedagogy and curriculum. It's particularly useful for those interested in the role of silent worship, consensus decision-making, and a non-hierarchical approach to learning in schools. It provides a powerful example of how a faith's values can be translated into a holistic and distinct educational policy.