The Perceptions of Early Career Teachers Regarding the Teaching of Religious Education in Catholic Schools in Western Australia

This study explored the perceptions of early career teachers (ECTs) regarding the teaching of Religious Education in Catholic schools in Western Australia. The study used a constructivist epistemology and an interpretivist theoretical perspective to explore participant perceptions. The methodology underpinning the study was an instrumental case study. Data were collected through an online survey of 91 ECTs. The results highlighted reasons motivating participants to teach Religious Education, the enjoyable aspects and challenges they experienced, the personal and professional support they received in their teaching of Religious Education, their perceived relevance of university training, and how they believed their university helped improve their confidence in teaching Religious Education.