Background
What is Accreditation?
Accreditation means the completion of required training … to ensure that every SRE teacher authorised on behalf of the Anglican Diocese of Sydney, meets quality standards and is equipped to effectively teach the Word of God in government schools.
Accreditation will help protect the future of SRE and the accountability of our local churches and Diocese to the governing state bodies. It is an investment not only for the spiritual state of this generation of children, but also for the long-term state of NSW.
Why is a new Accreditation policy necessary?
There has always been an expectation by the government that SRE teachers are appropriately trained in theology and good teaching practice. And as Christians we want to do everything in our power be clear and effective teachers of God’s word!
In recent times, increasing pressure has been applied by the media and secular interest groups, and it has become clear that the future of SRE is under real threat. We are in a new era of SRE, where teachers face greater scrutiny and accountability, and where SRE can no longer be taken for granted.
In order to ensure the continued credibility of the Anglican Church as a provider of SRE, the Anglican Education Commission (AEC) revised the policy around Authorisation and Accreditation.
Accreditation Training will be required for all Primary and High School SRE teachers authorised to teach Anglican SRE.
Youthworks, as the Anglican body given the responsibility of implementing these processes, is committed to supporting and training SRE teachers, as they invest time, energy and their gifts in teaching young hearts the truths of the gospel.
More information about the expectations on Special Religious Education providers in NSW government schools can be accessed by downloading "The Guide: Being An SRE Coordinator" PDF booklet published by Youthworks or visiting the NSW Department of Education and Training website.