Leadership Scholarship programme case study: Jake Womack

 

 

How has taking part in the Leadership Scholarship Programme shaped or transformed your development as a leader?

For some time before starting the programme, I felt I had more to contribute to RE. I had grown as much as I could within the walls of my school and knew I needed to explore what else was out there. The programme helped me deepen my understanding of curriculum and pedagogy, while equipping me to engage confidently with research and the political dimensions of the subject. It also gave me a clearer insight into how the RE community functions and, ultimately, helped me to find my place within it.

What impact has the programme had on your practice, your school or organisation, or the wider religion and worldviews education community?

Since completing the programme, I feel I’ve been able to add real, tangible value to my region. I now run several RE Network meetings, support multiple SACREs, and have built strong connections between schools, universities, and local faith communities. A standout example is the RE ThinkFest project. As part of my research, I collaborated with Leeds Trinity to deliver a half-day Philosophy, Ethics and Religion  experience for Year 10 and 11 students, designed to boost interest and engagement and ultimately increase the number of students choosing to pursue it. The project was a huge success and will now become an annual opportunity for students across West Yorkshire.

What did you find most valuable about the programme?

There were many aspects of the programme that I loved, but two stand out. The first was the expert mentoring. Both of my mentors were exceptional. They guided me through planning and refining my research and helped me forge meaningful connections with key leaders in the RE community. A particularly memorable moment was working with my mentor alongside the RE Hubs team at Westminster Abbey. The second highlight was the friendships I formed with my cohort. We continue to support and encourage one another, and one colleague is even due to deliver at my network. I’m confident that, as we each take on greater responsibility within RE, these relationships will remain an invaluable source of support.

Where has your journey taken you since completing the programme, and how has it helped you take the next step in your career?

Since the programme, I have produced work for national bodies, expanded my training networks, and become Co-director of Pennine Learning—something I would never have imagined before beginning the course. Those two years built my confidence, sharpened my practice, and helped me to understand where I fit into the bigger picture of RE.

Why do you think people should apply to the Leadership Scholarship programme?

I would highly recommend the course to anyone who wants to explore how they can contribute more to the wonderful world of Religious Education. Even if you are unsure where you fit or how you can add value, the programme will help you unlock your unique potential to become a champion for the subject.