At Yanwath, we aim to enhance and develop children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. We have created an inclusive, happy, stimulating learning environment, which allows equal opportunities for all. We recognise the importance of our pupils having the opportunity to discover and gain an insight into religions within the world that we live. We aim equip our pupils with the skills necessary to make reasoned and informed judgements about religious and moral issues. We provide opportunities for our children to reflect on their own beliefs, values and experiences. We understand the importance of teaching ethnic, religious and cultural diversity. Therefore, teaching a wide range of religious and cultural beliefs promotes understanding and tolerance which will ensure our pupils are fully prepared for life outside of their local environment.
The Right of Withdrawal from Religious Education (RE):
Religion and belief have become more visible in public life in recent years, making it important that all pupils should have an opportunity to engage in RE. However, the parent of a pupil at a community, foundation, or voluntary school (or pupils themselves if they are aged 18 or over) may request that they be excused from all or part of the religious education (RE) provided.
Parents who wish to withdraw their children from RE should be aware of its aims and what is covered in the RE curriculum and that they are given the opportunity to discuss this if they wish. It should be made clear whether the withdrawal is from the whole RE curriculum or specific parts of it. No reasons need be given.
Important – limitations to withdraw
- If pupils are withdrawn from RE, schools have a duty to supervise them, though not to provide additional teaching. A pupil may be required to work in another area of the school, such as library or break out area.
- Whilst parents or carers have a right to withdraw children from RE, they should note that children may also encounter religions and beliefs and wider aspects of faith in other areas of the curriculum from which there is no right of withdrawal.
- On occasion, spontaneous questions about religious matters are raised by pupils or issues related to religion arise in other curriculum subjects such as history or citizenship (PSHE). For example, schools promote community cohesion and help pupils to understand ideas about identity and diversity, feelings, and emotions within both religious and non-religious contexts.
Managing the Right of Withdrawal
If pupils are withdrawn from RE, schools have a duty to supervise them, though not to provide additional teaching or to incur extra cost. Pupils will usually remain on school premises where it is feasible and appropriate.
Where a request for withdrawal is made, the school must comply and excuse the pupil until the request is rescinded. Though not legally required, it is good practice for a head teacher to invite parents to discuss their written request.
(Section 71(3), School Standards and Framework Act 1998).
