While religious education must be taught in all schools by law, it is not part of the national curriculum. Wolverhampton SACRE provides an agreed syllabus for the study of religious education in the city’s schools and advises the council on how to improve teaching and collective worship.
Martin said: "It has been a great privilege to be a member of Wolverhampton SACRE over the last 20 years as the Jewish representative and Chair.
"Since 1988 the National Curriculum for England and Wales has developed and been implemented in schools but there is no National Curriculum for religious education. Instead it is the job of each local authority’s SACRE to create and support an agreed syllabus which reflects the local community.
"Wolverhampton is fortunate to have a variety of diverse communities. Children can learn about different religions; many are right on their doorstep and not some distant, strange thing. The agreed syllabus for RE helps schools teach children in Wolverhampton about the religious traditions of their neighbours and improve their understanding of one another.
"It is not often that you get an opportunity to sit on a committee that reaches agreement easily, has a focus on delivery and getting things done, and has the pleasure of seeing positive outcomes.
“Some have commented that Wolverhampton SACRE is a rewarding and joyful place to be because there is common accord to work together with the simple aim to encourage understanding and appreciation of different religious traditions. That has certainly been my experience over the last couple of decades for which I am very grateful!"
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Work, said: "On behalf of the council and Wolverhampton SACRE I would like to thank Martin for his dedication and service over the last 20 years.
"During Martin’s time as Chair, SACRE has delivered an improving and expanding offer of support for religious education across our city, benefitting schools, teachers and ultimately pupils. Martin is a valued member of SACRE and will be missed; on behalf of everyone, I wish Martin all the very best for the future."
The work of Wolverhampton SACRE is supported by representatives from numerous faith groups who also provide opportunities for Wolverhampton pupils to visit their places of worship and learn more about different religious traditions.
They are joined by representatives of teachers’ professional bodies, councillors and council officers. The SACRE is also supported by RE Today, a national organisation that helps deliver SACRE'S work programme to support teachers, and through them pupils, to receive high quality religious education.
