Agenda and minutes

Apologies for absence had been received from Councillors Cowan and Ismail, Mrs P Gan-Kotwal, Envoy Haylock, Mrs Jaffer, Mr O’Dwyer, Mrs Perinparaja and Reverend Dr S Thompson.

RESOLVED:  To note the attendance at this meeting of the following duly appointed Reserve Members:-

RESOLVED:  To note (1) the following interests declared by Council Members:

(2)  the following interests declared by non-Council members:

RESOLVED: That the minutes of the meeting held on 16 June 2005, having been circulated, be taken as read, and signed as a correct record subject to the following amendments:

(i)         Minute 160 – Apologies for Absence

That the names of Dr Pinching and Reverend Pothen be added to the list of apologies in minute 160. 

(ii)         Minute 165 - Determination

That the following be added to the end of section (3):  “It was noted that determinations were needed by schools before they could organise worship in faith groups.”

(iii)        Minute 167 – Any Other Business – News

That the words ‘Local Education Authority‘ be added after the word Sefton in Minute 167.

Muslim Resource Pack and associated in-service training for teachers

The launch of the Muslim Resource Pack for primary school children had been arranged at the last moment, however, a number of SACRE members had been among the people who had attended the Mosque for this occasion. It was noted that not many teachers had attended.  The Chair explained that she had been unable to borrow a pack for members to see but would do so for the next SACRE meeting.  The secondary school pack was due to be published in Spring 2006; SACRE had already ordered one for each high school. 

The pack, which was based on the non-statutory national guidelines for religious education, had proved helpful across the country. Harrow had been the first London Borough to use it.  It put emphasis on similarities rather than differences among faiths.  Two in-service teacher training days about the pack had been scheduled for Wednesday 12 October 2005 and Tuesday 18 October 2005, both between 4.30pm and 6pm at the Teachers’ Centre.  SACRE members were welcome to come to either or both events.

Draft report to the Education Consultative Forum

It was noted that the Muslim community had devised, and Harrow Council had financed the Muslim Resource pack. If other faith communities produced suitable educational packs, SACRE would consider purchasing them. The Chair tabled a draft of her report to the Education Consultative Forum, a version of which might be supplied later for publication in “Harrow People”.  

Effectiveness of the local Agreed Syllabus

An extract from “SACREs and Self-Evaluation: a Guide” was tabled. This outlined measures which could be used to determine the effectiveness of a SACRE with regard to administration.  There was some discussion about the effectiveness of SACRE meetings. 

Attendance

It was considered that attendance was not very good and measures to improve the situation were discussed. 

SACRE Venues

Following discussion from “SACREs and Self-Evaluation: a Guide”, members considered whether it would be possible to hold meetings in various places of worship. The Chair explained that there were no funds to pay for venues, other than Harrow Council premises for meetings. It was suggested that the 8 December 2005 meeting be held at the Civic Centre.  Councillor Patel offered to investigate whether the SACRE meeting on 9 March 2005 could take place at the Hindu temple in Neasden. The meeting would probably start at 6pm and would incorporate a tour of the temple.  Members also suggested Stanmore Baptist Church and All Saints Church for future meetings.

Reaction to London bombings on 7 July 2005

The Chair explained that Harrow had set up an emergency centre on 7 July 2005.  Thousands of people had offered accommodation and food and all faith communities had been supportive.  Schools had remained open until all the children had been collected, and the last child had left at 9.30pm.  Following the incident, headteachers had observed children for reactions such as name calling and stereotyping. Some schools had asked for advice and suggestions had been offered.  Harrow  ...  view the full minutes text for item 172.

It was expected that Whitmore High School’s application would be resubmitted shortly following school working party discussions.