RE

RE is for all pupils

• Every pupil has a legal entitlement to RE. 
• RE is a necessary part of a ‘broad and balanced curriculum’ and must be provided for all registered pupils in state-funded schools in England, including those in the sixth form, unless withdrawn by their parents (or withdrawing themselves if they
are aged 18 or over).
• This requirement does not apply to pupils below compulsory school age (although there are many examples of good practice of RE in nursery classes).
• Special schools should ensure that every pupil receives RE ‘as far as is practicable’.
• The ‘basic’ school curriculum includes the National Curriculum, RE, and relationships and sex education.

RE is multifaith

We recognises the place of Christianity and the other principal religions in the UK. Non-religious worldviews are included in our long term plans. 

The RE curriculum, drawn up by a SACRE or used by an academy or free school, ‘shall reflect the fact that the religious traditions in Great Britain are in the main Christian, while taking account of the teaching and practices of the other principal religions represented in Great Britain’. 

Contemporary guidance from the Government makes clear that the breadth of RE will include the six principal religions of the UK and nonreligious worldviews.

Parental right of withdrawal from RE

RE is open, broad and explores a range of religious and non-religious worldviews. In the UK, parents still have the right to withdraw their children from RE on the grounds
that they wish to provide their own RE. This provision will be the parents’ responsibility.

This right of withdrawal exists for all pupils in all types of school, including schools with and without a religious designation.  Parents also have the right to withdraw their child from part of RE.