Teachers don't need to attend scripture

By

Bob Lipscombe

There's no requirement for teachers to assist in scripture classes.

In recent times a number of members have raised concerns regarding the arrangements for scripture/special religious education (SRE) classes in their schools. Foremost amongst these concerns is what appears to be the growing practice of teachers being required to sit in scripture classes to assist the SRE teachers appointed by particular religious persuasions with supervision. Often this practice appears to have been introduced with little or no consultation with the teachers involved and no assessment of the impact on the teacher's workload.

The Department of Education and Training's document, Implementation of Religious Education Policy makes it clear that teachers are not required to attend SRE classes. It states that while principals have overall responsibility for the conduct of scripture classes, "Class teachers are not required to attend SRE classes, but may, with the agreement of the SRE teacher, assist or remain in the classroom."

Bob Lipscombe is Senior Vice President.

For further information

February 2008 contents