The Church of England has unveiled a new training resource called 'Understanding Christianity', following concerns that classes currently do not always get to the heart of core Christian beliefs.
In addition to exploring the out-working of the Christian faith through things like festivals or practises, it is hoped the programme will better equip schools to teach on the creation, the fall, incarnation, salvation and the Gospel.
1 day to go the launch of #understandingchristianity All is prepared. @JChipperton @kathrynfenlodge @tattywilson pic.twitter.com/qtzJbXC6iP
— Derek (@HollowayDerek) May 25, 2016
Project leader Derek Holloway told Premier: "We're living in an age of increasingly discussion and interest in religion - which is often quite negative - and it's important that all adults are able to hold an informed conversation about religion.
"They can only do that if they have got a good understanding of what those religons teach.
"There is a great excitement when people see the resource and the potential that it has to enhance, improve and make more creative the lessons which teachers are delivering around Christianity."
Developed in collaboration with teachers, academics and RE Today Services, 'Understanding Christianity' has been supported by Culham St Gabriels, The Sir Halley Stewart Trust, the Jerusalem Trust and an anonymous donor.
Trialled in more than 50 schools, more than 100 schools have now signed up to receive the training in the diocese of St Albans alone, equating to more than 800 teachers and staff.
Diocesan Education Officer for Exeter Diocese Tatiana Wilson, who trialled the resource in four schools, said: "As an RE specialist, I am convinced that this resource will have a significant impact on the quality of RE taught in church and community schools."
Stephen Pett, RE Today Adviser and editor of Understanding Christianity, said: "The intention of these resources is to support and equip teachers of RE in their lessons.
"The resources offer an approach that can be applied in any RE classroom, with a wide range of classroom ideas and materials to help develop pupils' understanding of Christian belief and practice, as part of their wider studies in RE."
Listen to Premier's Alex Williams speaking to Derek Holloway: