NSW public schools offer special religious education and special education in ethics, delivered by approved providers wherever available.
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.
Scripture and ethics classes
Scripture classes
Scripture lessons are conducted each Friday morning by instructors approved by the Ministers' Association. Religious instruction is provided to those children where a religious application is recorded on a student's enrolment form. Students will be expected to attend scripture lessons. Should exclusion be required, parents are to make that request in writing.
Ethics classes for students in Years 3 to 6
As an alternative to non-scripture classes, parents have an option for their child to be included in Ethics classes. The classes are held during scripture time each Friday.
Each fortnight students focus on a new topic area for discussion. The lessons are taken by trained teachers and are open to all students in Years 3 to 6.
Please contact the school or go to the primary Ethics website if you would like further information.