Parents & R.E.
Parents and teachers are partners in helping children to learn. It is very important that parents understand the nature of Religious Education and especially why visits to places of worship are an essential part of the curriculum.
www.dfes.gov.uk/parentsSome materials for primary teachers to use with parents can be found at the address above. This site provides guidance on different aspects of learning. The ‘Discover Series’ includes parent-friendly guides on religious buildings, symbols and festivals. There are also links to places of worship that are open to the general public, and a parent-friendly guide to the curriculum.
Parents are entitled to withdraw their child(ren) from RE in accordance with the Education Act (1988, amended 1996). The DFES circular 1/94 gives schools guidance on this area. Most Local Education Authorities agree that although parents have a right to withdraw their child(ren) from RE it is very rare for this to take place.
How to avoid difficulty
- Inform parents clearly about the RE curriculum in school e.g. through the prospectus
- Emphasise the educational nature of the subject, including visits to places of worship
- Provide an opportunity for parents to discuss any concerns they may have with the headteacher
- Stress the importance of RE in helping children in their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development