About the Religious Education Advisory Council (REAC)
The Religious Education Advisory Council (REAC) is a statutory advisory body established under the
Education (Jersey) Law 1999.
The Council advises the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on matters relating to Religious Education (RE) in Jersey's schools. It supports the development of a broad, balanced and inclusive curriculum that promotes understanding, respect and appreciation of religious and non-religious beliefs within modern society.
It brings together representatives from a range of faith communities, education professionals and other stakeholders. It gives independent advice on the development, implementation and review of Religious Education across Jersey's education system.
REAC supports schools to keep Religious Education relevant, academically rigorous and reflective of Jersey's diverse community.
It promotes mutual respect, tolerance, and understanding of different beliefs and world views.
Purpose
The purpose of REAC is to provide independent professional advice to the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on Religious Education. It also supports high-quality teaching and learning in this important area of the curriculum.
The Council will:
- advise the Minister on the development, implementation and review of Religious Education within the Jersey Curriculum
- support the development and regular review of the agreed syllabus for Religious Education
- promote high-quality, inclusive and academically thorough Religious Education across all schools
- encourage understanding and respect for the diversity of religious and non-religious beliefs represented within Jersey and the wider world
- consider national and international developments in Religious Education to inform curriculum development
- provide professional challenge and advice on proposed changes to Religious Education policy and practice
- support collaboration between schools, faith communities and educational organisations to enrich pupils' learning experiences
- encourage approaches to Religious Education that promote critical thinking, ethical understanding, citizenship and respect for diversity
Role of REAC
REAC provides strategic professional advice to the Minister. It does not direct or manage schools.
The Council's role includes:
- reviewing the effectiveness of Religious Education across Jersey's schools
- advising on the content and development of the agreed syllabus for Religious Education
- considering evidence relating to curriculum implementation and educational outcomes
- promoting high-quality teaching, learning and assessment in Religious Education
- supporting curriculum innovation where it improves pupils' understanding of religion, belief and ethics
- encouraging collaboration and the sharing of effective practice between schools and wider community partners
- providing advice on emerging issues relating to Religious Education and collective reflection within education
Members of REAC
The membership of REAC reflects a broad range of educational, community and faith perspectives. Membership may include representatives from:
- Christian denominations represented within Jersey
- other recognised faith communities
- representatives of non-religious world views
- primary schools
- secondary schools
- further education
- curriculum specialists
- educational advisors
-
school leaders
- representatives appointed by the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning
Members provide independent advice that reflects the best interests of Jersey's children and young people. They recognise the diversity of beliefs within the Island community.
Meeting dates
REAC meet throughout the year to consider matters relating to Religious Education, curriculum development and the agreed syllabus.
The Council may establish working groups or invite specialist advisors where additional expertise is required to support particular areas of work.
2026 Religious Education Advisory Council agenda and minutes
2025 Religious Education Advisory Council agenda and minutes
gov.je