The Professionalisation of Non-Denominational Religious Education in England: Politics, Organisation and Knowledge

摘要: In response to contemporary concerns, and using neglected primary sources, this article explores the professionalisation of teachers Religious Education (RI/RE) in non-denominational, state-maintained schools England. It does so from launch Religion (1934) Institute for Christian at Home Abroad (1935) founding Council England Wales (1973) British Journal (1978). Professionalisation is defined as a collective historical process terms three inter-related concepts: (1) professional self-organisation politics, (2) knowledge, (3) initial continuing development. The sketches history non-denominational religious education prior focus period, contextualise emergence professionalising processes under scrutiny. Professional politics are explored by reconstructing origins Abroad, which became principal body offering development provision RI/RE some fifty years. knowledge discussed relation content was oriented around Idealism interdenominational networking. Changes journal name 1960s 1970s reflected uncertainties about orientation subject shifts understanding over nature character knowledge. also particular case resistance, late 1960s, prevailing consensus surrounding purpose RI/RE, representativeness authority pre-eminent time. conclusion, examines implications may be drawn prospects problems RE today.