Interfaith Conference

An annual Interfaith conference for Key Stage 3 students, bringing together Religious representatives from Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Quakers and Humanism to discuss their beliefs, the similarities between their religions and how we, as a society, can all work together. 

The event involves a question and answer panel discussion and a series of small group discussions with religious leaders discussing specific topics with students.

Aims

To raise awareness and understanding of different religions and belief systems to help build a society of acceptance and tolerance.

Often students in a school are surrounded by others of similar backgrounds, beliefs and ethnicities so it is important to provide an opportunity to for students to learn about and interact with people of varying beliefs. 

The success of the event is heavily dependent on the experience of the presenters, requiring a good knowledge, confidence in presenting to younger students and a willingness to have positive discourse with those of differing faiths.

This event not only helps the wider community by spreading acceptance and understanding but puts KS3 students in a great position to start their studies in Religion and Philosophy.

Background

Our Head of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics is passionate about developing an understanding and awareness of differing beliefs in order to enhance dialogue and acceptance in the community. 

With connections throughout the religious and theological communities, we saw an opportunity to create an opportunity for our students to get involved in these discussions. 

Such discussions always benefit from a wider range of input, so to both enhance the event and help spread the interfaith concept to the community we extended an invitation out to surrounding schools. 

Resources

This is a yearly event. During COVID times, this event took place via Zoom, which required prior troubleshoot between ourselves as a host and the faith leaders. 

In normal times, a large venue is requires for the Panel discussion and QandA, with smaller venues for the 'break out' small group discussions. 

Pupil Involvement

This event is aimed specifically at Key stage 3 students, who have only just started or are yet to start any Religious Study curricula. 

All students are involved equally, with the opportunity to provide preprepared questions for the panel discussion, ask questions during the QandA and provide input during small group discussion

Frequency

This is a yearly event, entering into is third year.