Special Religious Education (SRE)
Spiritual Wellbeing
Special Religious Education (SRE), also known as School Scripture, is a unique opportunity in NSW public schools for parents to have their children educated in the faith of their family.
SRE has been in NSW public schools for over 130 years, from when the state took over from the churches in the provision of education. In NSW, some 250,000 children attend Christian SRE lessons, making it the largest ministry to children.
Under the Education Act, up to one hour per week is allowed for SRE (lessons are typically 30 minutes). Parents also have the right to choose SRE, and the right to withdraw their child from SRE.
The lessons are provided by authorised volunteers from approved providers, i.e. church groups that are approved by the Department of Education. SRE Volunteer teachers attend training in classroom management and Child Protection.
Volunteer SRE teachers must use an authorised curriculum. Lessons from the curriculum include activities such as songs, prayers, games, worksheets, drama, and discussions.
The curricula are Bible-based and include various topics, such as ancient history, Christian ethics, language, and opportunities for moral and spiritual development.
“I like going to Scripture because I learn about God’” – Isabelle, Year 1 student
SRE Resources
- SRE Orientation Handbook
- SRE Clergy Form 2023
- SRE Teacher Engagement Form 2023 PRIMARY
- SRE Teacher Engagement Form 2023 SECONDARY
- Combined Authorisation Letter to Schools
- Curriculum Links 2023
- Authorisation Letter to Schools Stand Alone Provider
- The Department of Education (DoE) requires that all curricula authorised for use in SRE (School Scripture) be available for parents and carers to view online.
View the curriculum. - The Department of Education (DoE) requires that our SRE Training Framework for Module(s) 1-7 be made available online.
View SRE training Framework. - The Department of Education (DoE) requires that our SRE Complaint Handling Policy and Procedures be made available online.
View SRE Complaint Handling Policy. - The Anglican Diocese of Newcastle has also authorised a locally produced curriculum for High School SRE.
View Year 7 SRE Curriculum Scope and Sequence. - NSW Dept of Education Code of Conduct
- NSW Dept. of Education social media
- The Department of Education (DoE) requires that all curricula authorised for use in SRE (School Scripture) be available for parents and carers to view online.