NSW public schools offer special religious education and special education in ethics, delivered by approved providers wherever available.
Allambie Heights Public School currently offers the following options for SRE and Special Education in Ethics:
Combined Scripture – Combined SRE adds value to school communities in many ways. It allows students to explore and nurture their spirituality; facilitates a pathway for the spiritual care of students; raises the conversation of faith and gives permission to students to talk about their own faith and journey; and it teaches the basic themes and lessons of the Bible for students to consider. All children interested in learning about the Christian faith are welcome to attend these lessons. Children learn in a fun and engaging program what the Bible has to say and how it applies to our world today. They are encouraged to ask lots of questions, debate and think through the wide range of topics discussed. All children work through an activity book and enjoy great music and games. All denominations are very welcome, Anglican, Pentecostal, Uniting, Presbyterian, Baptist, Seventh Day Adventist, Bretheren and also Orthodox. Classes are run by volunteers from Christ Church Northern Beaches, as approved by the Anglicare Diocese of Sydney. Curriculum details are available at https://whysre.com.au/sre-curriculum/cep-curriculum-overview/
Catholic Scripture – The Catholic SRE curriculum delivers an ethical framework based upon a relationship with a loving God who is the source of goodness and truth. Catholic students who attend this scripture can also complete the sacramental program for Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation. Classes are run by volunteers from Catholic Community of North Harbour, as approved by the Catholic Diocese of Broken Bay. Curriculum details are available at https://www.bbcatholic.org.au/parish-community/ministries/ccd/curriculum
Primary Ethics (y1 – y6 students only) – The philosophical ethics classes that make up the Primary Ethics curriculum are inquiry based. Children use dialogue and discussion, learning how to think about ethical matters through the give-and-take of reasoned argument. The NSW government has authorised Primary Ethics, a not-for profit organisation, to deliver these classes. For further information about the content of the philosophical ethics curriculum or to see a short video, What Happens In Ethics Classes, please go to www.primaryethics.com.au . Classes are capped at 22 students.
Non scripture – Under the provisions of Section 26 of the Education Act 1990, students may be exempt from attending religious education classes, on the basis of conscientious objection on religious grounds. Students who attend non scripture sit and read quietly in a supervised area. During this time, students cannot complete class work or receive extra teaching from a teacher. These activities should neither compete with SRE nor be alternative lessons in the subjects within the curriculum.
For more information, visit Religion and ethics.