A Muslim and a Jew

Hello Colleague

We are delighted to have this conversation between Shammi Rahman and Lou Tribus. Shammi is the Diversity and Equalities Adviser for HFL Education and is a former secondary RE teacher. Lou is a former primary teacher with a specialism in RE.

Steve Willshaw and I had been discussing how we might include sensitive and important conversations about faith and belief, particularly in the light of recent conflicts.

Steve had the inspired idea to replicate a similar format to the podcast ‘A Muslim & A Jew Go There’ with comedian David Baddiel (author of ‘Jews Don’t Count’) and politician Sayeeda Warsi (‘Muslims Don’t Matter’) who provide context and discussion around current political and cultural events involving and affecting British Muslims and Jews.

What we have with Shammi and Lou’s contribution is a wide-ranging discussion about what it means to teach great RE. They talk openly about some of the barriers to getting it right. They recount how young people and their families appreciate the efforts RE professionals make in provide an honest and hopeful representation of religion. And why we need a national curriculum for RE!

Shammi and Lou’s professional friendship is a joy to listen to and their insights are not just for RE teachers but for all colleagues looking to provide greater inclusion and sensitivity around identify, faith and belonging.

You can watch ‘A Muslim and a Jew talk RE’ here and also listen on the app!

Until next time

Mary