Masters study brings many benefits for the individual teacher, but also to the school. Teachers who undertake Masters study will reflect on their practice and improve their teaching skills. They will develop research methods which can be shared with colleagues. Masters study helps teachers in their ability to analyse data sets and become up to date with policy developments both within and beyond their own discipline. In addition, the teacher’s dissertation may be linked to a school priority. For example, if a school has a priority area such as improving outcomes for dyslexic pupils, the teacher of RE could focus on this area from an RE perspective.

Recent Ofsted reports have highlighted the need for subject specific high-quality professional development for teachers of RE. In particular reports have noted the need for curricula to be well planned and sequenced enabling pupils to learn RE in depth so they can remember and apply what they have learned. Ofsted have also stressed the valuable contribution RE makes to pupils’ personal development, as well the development of respect and preparing pupils for life in modern Britain.

An education in religion and world views is more important now than ever before. We live in a world that is increasingly diverse. Understanding religious and non-religious worldviews is essential if people are to live and work well together in our communities. The Commission on RE (2018) cites a number of reasons why the subject is important. These include: to develop pupils’ ability to engage with important aspects of human experience; provide insights into science, culture, history and politics, develop values such as respect and empathy; challenge stereotypes and promote community cohesion.

There is no monetary contribution required from the school. The school is asked to commit to providing three days of non-contact time per annum for the teacher to undertake their Masters work. There are a variety of ways a school may manage this. For example, this might be half a day per half term, or a day a term. It may be easier in secondary schools for the days to be blocked e.g. after GCSE/A level exams. The school is required to sign an undertaking agreeing to this provision.

Yes, as long as there are places available on the programme.