Having a go at the RE-searchers approach to prepare for quality RE

In this article, I outline the rationale for the introduction of the RE-searchers approach in training my students for Religious Education (RE) in an Initial Teacher Education course at Birmingham City University, England. As part of the contextual information, I will articulate the intended outcomes that I aimed to achieve and how this approach is linked to the course philosophy. Thereafter, as a model for how to introduce the REsearchers approach to students, the delivery of the session is critically delineated. I highlight the usefulness of giving future teachers an opportunity to experience both dimensions of the approach (i.e., enquiring and teaching). The final section offers reflections which are informed by student feedback and personal observations. In my context, time constraint has been the main challenge. Nevertheless, I am confident that I now have a practical session at my disposal for the whole year group which has proven to be an immersive, relevant and thought-provoking learning experience for them. In turn, my students have a pedagogy to add to their existing ones.