Rename RE as 'Humanity' says Allan Hayes

Allan Hayes answered a Facebook question by Grace Jessup. Do you believe that a comprehensive R.E syllabus should include teachings about the Humanist/Atheist viewpoint? Allan said...

"RE should become a course in HUMANITY: its biological basis; how we have ourselves created it to the present (including the contributions of religions); what we can do to make it better and what it means to be a good human being. Children should be helped to be proud of humanity, of being a human being, and to be responsible, happy, contributing members. 

This has been my position in eight years on Leicester SACRE (which now included Humanism in its Agreed Syllabus) and in my talks and conversations with groups and people of all beliefs. The present concern about RE, arising from its not being in the English Baccalaureat resulting in its diminished importance in the eyes of schools and the consequent reduction in staffing and time, gives an opportunity to rethink the subject. We need a vision, an ethos for all, one that brings us together. I have found wide support for the above, but open, coordinated advocacy and pressure is needed from all concerned, religious and otherwise.