Thinking of a career as a Religious Educator? Great Choice!

Some people have been asking what Circular 0013/2018 means for those thinking about a career in Religious Education. The answer is that nothing has changed. It is still a great career with huge potential. Religious Education (RE) is a popular subject in Irish Second Level Schools.

The job prospects are as good as ever at home and the demand for RE teachers is growing rapidly abroad. Only last month the Guardian newspaper reported that Religious Studies remains a 'surprisingly' popular subject at A-Level. The National Association of Teachers of Religious Education has just launched an appeal for more teachers.

Circular 0013/2018 does not override the mandates from Circular 7/79, the Irish Episcopal Conference and the ATCS that RE is taught for a minimum of 2 hours a week. Of course it is essential that parents have the right to withdraw their children if they so wish. Under the Framework for Junior Cycle (2015), RE will be introduced as a full subject in 2019. This document identifies key skills which underpin successful learning. RE fosters all of them. Like every other subject is will be timetabled for at least 200 hours over the 3 years of Junior Cycle. RE teachers will receive the same in-service and supports as teachers of any other subject.

Does Circular 0013/2018 comply with the Education Act?

The Education Act (1998) Section 7 states that the Minister shall consult with stakeholders before making changes. Consultation is a legal requirement, a necessary prerequisite to changes such as those outlined in the circular. Section 7 also states that the Minister 'shall have regard to the resources available.' Without consultation or due regard for resources, the standing of this circular is very uncertain indeed. The Teachers Union of Ireland has rejected Circular 0013/2014. The Religion Teachers' Association of Ireland has expressed serious concerns.

Does Circular 0013/2018 understand Religious Education?

The Circular talks about Religious Instruction. Religious Instruction is not a subject on the existing curriculum at any level, nor is it a subject in the new Junior Cycle. The degree offered by DCU is a Bachelor of Religious Education. Graduates take up positions as teachers of Religious Education.

Many people with a flair, affinity or just an interest in the subject go on to study for the DCU Master's Degree in Religion and Education. Religious Education, as both an exam and non-exam subject, contributes significantly to the holistic education of students. Ireland, like every place else, requires young people who are informed and prepared to contribute actively to responsible society. Teachers of Religious Education have a unique contribution to make in that regard. It could;be you!

Content originally posted on Careers Portal by Dr Amalee Meehan on April 24th, 2018