Dear parents and carers,

Thanks to the support of the combined churches of the Hunter our school is able to offer classes in Special Religious Education (SRE), sometimes known as scripture. This is a well-organised program which is not linked to any specific denomination. The program allows students the chance to discuss, question, think and ultimately make decisions for themselves regarding the Christian faith.

This opportunity is part of the NSW public education system, which allows time in class for education in ethics, faith and morality from a religious or non-religious perspective at the choice of parents. The school website www.westwalls-h.schools.nsw.edu.au provides information on these options to support parent/carer choice. Further information about Special Religious Education (SRE) can also be found at: https://education.nsw.gov.au/teaching-and-learning/curriculum/learning-across-the-curriculum/religion-and-ethics.

The SRE provider for West Wallsend High School is a combined churches program using the Baptist Union of NSW WBCEA Discovery Curriculum. SRE is delivered 1 period per timetable cycle. Further details may be found here: https://nswactbaptists.org.au/resources/authorised-sre-curriculum/.

Students who participate in SRE will not in any way be disadvantaged regarding their normal class time as the curriculum will not progress during SRE. Students not attending SRE are provided with supervised alternative meaningful activities. A parent/carer may at any time notify the school in writing that they wish to change their decision.Students will continue the same arrangement as the previous year unless a parent/carer has requested a change in writing.

Special Religious Education (SRE) Participation

West Wallsend High School