Patricia Friel

- degree in Social Anthropology and Development Studies from SOAS; My interest in teaching RE comes primarily from a love of working with young people. I have been involved with running my church youth group for the past few years, and I find it exciting and fulfilling to help facilitate young people explore issues of faith and identity. I believe RE teaching will be a continuation of this practice. My personal experience of studying RE to A level is one which has definitely encouraged my decision to pursue a career in RE teaching. RE lessons were unique for me in that I would often walk home thinking of the discussions we had had in class. These discussions were often instrumental in the forming of my own personal opinions on many controversial issues such as the problem of suffering, and social debates such as euthanasia. I believe RE teaching gives pupils the opportunity to question and explore both their own beliefs and the beliefs of others, allowing them to come to an informed decision about their personal beliefs and opinions - this was certainly my experience! Furthermore, as a volunteer child mentor, I have seen first hand how educational disadvantage can massively impact on a child's life, and lower their life expectations. I believe good RE teaching can reverse this disadvantage , not only by providing academic knowledge but also by giving a sense of self respect and purpose.