At Watlington CP School we aim to provide a high-quality, engaging and inclusive Religious Education curriculum that inspires and challenges pupils to develop a deeper understanding of religion and its significance in today’s society. Our aim is to foster a positive and respectful attitude towards different beliefs, values and traditions, and to help pupils develop their critical thinking, empathy and spiritual awareness.

RE is for all pupils

• Every pupil has a legal entitlement to RE.
• RE is a necessary part of a ‘broad and balanced curriculum’ and must be provided for all registered pupils in state-funded schools in England, including those in the sixth form, unless withdrawn by their parents (or withdrawing themselves if they are aged 18 or over).

Parental right of withdrawal from RE

This was first granted in 1944 when curricular RE was called ‘Religious Instruction’ and carried with it connotations of induction into the Christian faith. RE is very different now – open, broad and exploring a range of religious and non-religious world views.

In the UK, parents still have the right to withdraw their children from RE on the grounds that they wish to provide their own RE. This provision will be the parents’ responsibility. This right of withdrawal exists for all pupils in all types of school, including schools with and without a religious designation.  Parents also have the right to withdraw their child from part of RE, and can do so without giving any explanation.