Finchley and Golders Green MP Mike Freer has praised the value of Religious Education after meeting staff and pupils during a tour of Manorside Primary School.

Mr Freer’s visit to the Squires Lane school was prompted by a Parliamentary report that carried concerns about the teaching of RE in schools.

Although he said schools were doing a good job teaching the subject, he explained non-specialist teachers were often found leading the subject.

He said: “Religious Education teachers at the Manorside and across Finchley are doing an excellent job in ensuring our young grow up with a thorough understanding of the different faiths and beliefs around us – knowledge and skills that will equip them to tackle many of the challenges that life presents.

“But the value of RE in schools across the country has been eroded due to various policies relating to the English Baccalaureate, academies and GCSE short courses. These pressures have led to non-specialist teachers trying to fulfill a role that requires expert knowledge and understanding of detailed issues.

“We must ensure that students are not short-changed and are given the best possible chance to get the most from a subject that will help them thrive in an increasingly multicultural and diverse society.”