NSW public schools offer special religious education and special education in ethics, delivered by approved providers wherever available.
Chris and Nerida Cuddy have been coordinating the Scripture program at Canowindra High for 17 years, working with a team of teachers who volunteer on behalf of local churches. Feedback from students each term shows that nearly all students find the lessons interesting, relevant and fun.
During Years 7-10, each group has five 1 hour lessons per year, and the curriculum has been designed to help students think through their own beliefs, ethical thinking and ideas about life. The program has a great respect for all students and their own backgrounds, experiences and opinions. The aim is not to 'push religion on students' but to introduce them to some general Christian ideas. Examples of how people have lived these ideas have given students enough information to be able to make up their own minds, and develop a greater understanding of their own spiritual view of life.
During enrolment, you can choose a special religious education option for your child from the school’s available approved providers. You can withdraw your child from special religious education by selecting alternative meaningful activities, or special education in ethics if it’s available.
You can update your preference by writing to the school or through the online form available at participating schools.
Visit the department’s website for more information about religion and ethics.