Alongside proposals to strengthen Religious Education within the curriculum, there is also growing recognition of the need for more inclusive approaches that support learners with a wide range of needs, abilities and educational experiences.

For schools, colleges and alternative provision settings, the challenge is not simply what is taught, but how learners are supported to engage, participate and achieve.

This is particularly important for learners in SEND settings, alternative provision and those who may find traditional qualification routes less accessible.

At NOCN, we believe Religious Education should be available to every learner. That's why we have expanded our General Religious Education qualification suite with the introduction of new Entry Level 1 and Entry Level 2 qualifications, creating a progression pathway from Entry Level 1 through to Level 3.

Designed for learners from any faith tradition, or none, the qualifications explore religion, belief, spirituality, ethics and contemporary society through accessible and engaging learning experiences.

Unlike qualifications that rely heavily on formal assessment, the NOCN suite is assessed through a portfolio of evidence, allowing learners to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding through activities that reflect their individual strengths and abilities.

The qualifications are particularly well suited to schools, colleges, SEND provision, alternative provision and community learning environments where flexibility and learner engagement are key priorities.

Katherine Tunney, Senior Product Developer at NOCN, said:

"Religious Education can help learners develop understanding, empathy, self-awareness and confidence, regardless of their background or ability.

"As conversations continue around curriculum reform and inclusive education, it is important that learners have access to qualifications that recognise different ways of learning and achieving.

"Our General Religious Education qualifications provide a flexible pathway that allows learners to build knowledge, understanding and confidence at a pace that works for them."

The NOCN General Religious Education suite now offers a complete progression route from Entry Level 1 through to Level 3 Award, supporting learners to develop religious literacy, ethical awareness, personal reflection and understanding of the diverse society in which they live.

View our Religious Education qualifications: 

• NOCN Entry Level Award in General Religious Education (Entry 1)
• NOCN Entry Level Award in General Religious Education (Entry 2)
• NOCN Entry Level Award in General Religious Education (Entry 3)
• NOCN Level 1 Award in General Religious Education
• NOCN Level 2 Award in General Religious Education
• NOCN Level 3 Award in General Religious Education