Religious Education

A basic level of religious education, called special religious education (SRE), is provided in all NSW public schools.

Authorised representatives of approved religious groups are invited to schools to teach students. Currently more than 90 religious groups have approval.

Parents and caregivers are asked to advise the school of their child's religious denomination at enrolment. SRE is not compulsory and parents and caregivers can withdraw their child from SRE classes at any time by notifying the principal. Students not attending SRE will be appropriately cared for at school. This may include private study, but not timetabled lessons or scheduled school activities.

Schools also provide general religious education in human society and its environment (HSIE). These lessons explore the place of religion in society, the diversity and history of religions, and the importance of religious beliefs for particular individuals and communities.

Public schools now have the option of offering ethics classes. The classes will initially be available to Years 5 and 6 and then progressively extended to other primary school years, including Kindergarten.

The St James Ethics Centre will be responsible for the delivery of the classes.