![](https://d3ilqtpdwi981i.cloudfront.net/9yLlKASQufgl4w_g4G_lH_pI3qc=/425x550/smart/https://bepress-attached-resources.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/67/56/d2/6756d298-c9b1-4667-9314-4a592c369853/thumbnail_bbe325c7-90b9-4bb2-b4f7-1de13446c5dc.jpg)
This article reports on the formation of pre-service teachers for religious education through an experiential learning program called the Retreat Leaders Training Program (RLTP). First, the article examines the need for formation for pre-service RE teachers, especially as the formation relates to the development of three forms of teacher knowledge: content knowledge, pedagogical content knowledge and experiential content knowledge. Second, the article reviews the literature on the role of experiential learning in professional formation and the contribution live-in retreats may make in this formation. Third, the article presents the Retreat Leaders Training Program as an example of the formative influence of a retreat based on experiential learning. Fourth, feedback from pre-service teachers undertaking the 2011 program is reported. Lastly, the article discusses the outcomes of the RLTP and the significance of the program as a key ingredient in the formation of teacher knowledge for religious education.
- Peer-reviewed
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/shane_lavery/23/