Lewisham's Standing Advisory Council of Religious Education (SACRE) convened on 25 November 2025, to discuss the qualities that define an effective SACRE member. The meeting, one of several held regularly[1], took place as part of a wider discussion covering topics from curriculum assessment to RE teaching hours.

During the meeting, attendees were scheduled to rank a list of characteristics deemed important for SACRE members, based on a document titled What makes a good SACRE member?. The goal was to reach a consensus, discarding any characteristics considered inappropriate. However, this activity was deferred to the next meeting.

Some of the characteristics considered included:

  • listens to all views and ideas
  • seeks to understand the views of other members, rather than simply promoting his/her own agenda
  • is willing to contribute to discussions
  • understands his or her role as a SACRE member
  • thinks his or her point of view is important
  • is committed to SACRE meetings
  • is well informed about the work of their SACRE
  • works harmoniously with other members
  • has time to spend in school
  • listens more than he or she speaks
  • wants to build good partnerships with other SACRE members
  • is keen and able to communicate with teachers and pupils
  • takes an active participative approach, following lines of enquiry of personal interest
  • supports and encourages local schools to aspire to high standards in RE and collective worship
  • is prepared to bring issues to SACRE from their faith, belief or other sponsoring group
  • cares about pupils' learning and their personal development
  • is confident about everything to do with RE and CW in schools
  • takes an active part in meetings
  • is able to offer relevant experiences
  • understands and believes in the positive value of RE and CW in schools
  • keeps in touch with national issues in RE and CW
  • knows about local faith communities
  • has the ability and confidence to question perceived wisdom
  • takes an interest in key RE and CW issues facing schools
  • works to create a bridge between SACRE, local communities and local schools

[1] The meeting information indicates that Lewisham's SACRE meets regularly. The minutes of the previous meeting on 21st October were reviewed, and the next meeting was scheduled for Thursday 26th February 2026. The agenda states, The public are welcome to attend our committee meetings...Copies of reports can be made available in additional formats on request.