NSW public schools offer special religious education and special education in ethics, delivered by approved providers wherever available.
At Banksmeadow Public School, the implementation of Religion and Ethics reflects NSW DoE policy and procedures for Special Religious Education (SRE) and Special Education in Ethics (SEE) classes.
Banksmeadow Public School supports SRE and SEE by:
- ensuring no academic instruction or formal school activities occur during time set aside for SRE/SEE;
- providing adequate learning facilities for the delivery of
SRE/SEE during school hours; and - providing families with access to current information about SRE/SEE.
At Banksmeadow Public School, SRE is delivered on Thursdays from 1:50pm to 3:00pm for all students K - 6.
Upon enrolment, parents/carers will be provided with the SRE letter to complete and return. After the initial enrolment, any notification of changes to a child's enrolment in SRE should be provided to the school administration staff in the office in writing.
The following SRE classes are offered at Banksmeadow Public School:
Special Religious Education (SRE): Anglican SRE
Anglican Scripture introduces children to the Bible and the message of who Jesus is in a fun and enagaging way. Interactive classes are taught by trained SRE volunteers from Banksmeadow Community Chuch. The high quality approved curriculum allows children to explore matters of life and faith together. For more information about the curriculum scope and sequences, please visit the Christian Education website (Connect).
Special Religious Education (SRE): Catholic SRE
Catholic SRE is provided by the Catholic Diocese of Sydney, Parish of St Agnes, Malabar. Lessons include activities that are fun and inclusive for students, whilst also providing them with the opportunity to critically explore in depth their faith and to pray and reflect. For more informatio about the Catholic SRE, including the curriculum scope and sequence, please visit the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney website.
Special Religious Education (SRE): Greek Orthodox
SRE or Scripture, compliments the general education of Greek Orthodox children. Scripture classes focus on an Orthodox way of life and identity. The lessons include much more than Bible knowledge. They assist in developing the religious sense of each child. Children are shown how to pray, the importance of the Sacraments in our life and feasts of the Orthodox Church. For more information about the Greek Orthodox Curriculum and scope and sequence, please visit the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia website.
During the time that SRE/SEE classes are being held, students not attending will be located in a separate space and will participate in meaningful activities including reading.
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.