More than 80 people from schools across the diocese attended the Bath and Wells RE Conference, organised by the diocesan Education team at Flourish House, Wells.
Stephen Pett, from RE Today, was the keynote speaker. Stephen, who has extensive experience in religious education, was instrumental in developing the Understanding Christianity resource in 2016 and the Understanding Muslims, Understanding Islam resource in 2025. He also authored the Handbook for Curriculum Writers for the RE Council’s Religion and Worldviews project and collaborated with research programmes to create resources focusing on non-religious worldviews.
Throughout the day, Stephen shared lots of ideas and advice on how to introduce these new ideas and concepts into the classroom and provided a range of resources to support the teaching of religions and worldviews. The day also offered lots of opportunities for attendees to discuss the topic and share ideas with one another. Towards the end of the day many began incorporating what they had learnt into their long-term curriculum planning and everyday lesson plans.
Speaking after the conference, Paul Marvin, diocesan Education Adviser, said, “It was an interesting, exciting and enjoyable day. It was wonderful to welcome so many people from across the diocese to Wells for the conference. There was a truly positive atmosphere of learning, encouragement, and shared conversation throughout the day. We are also delighted to welcome Stephen Pett as this year’s speaker. Stephen has significant experience in religious education and, as a national adviser with RE Today, has helped shape nationally recognised resources. A huge thank you to everyone who travelled from across the diocese to be part of it. It’s a real joy to learn together.”
Paul’s comments were echoed by many of those who came along. One said, “It's been very good, very helpful. It's a great opportunity to connect with different people in different trusts, as well as within our own trust, and to learn together.”
Anna Baker, from Upton Noble, shared how the day will help inspire her lessons: “It has been massively helpful, because it's an opportunity just to really focus on RE, and to take away lots of ideas.”
Kelly Hambleton, from Bruton Primary, commented, “I'm hoping to get some ideas for how we can adapt our curriculum to fit the world view approach, and how we can work with others and make connections. I find it very interesting to explore different viewpoints and to learn more about them.”