NSW public schools offer special religious education and special education in ethics, delivered by approved providers wherever available.
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.
Alstonville High is proud to offer an interesting and innovative religious education program that is designed to be relevant and appealing to youth. The program recently received a Public Education Award for excellence in the Tweed Heads/Ballina region for its significant contribution to values education in a State High School.
Alstonville Religious Education Association (AREA) employs a full time staff worker to co-ordinate the program for the junior school. The provider is Alstonville Anglican Church. The lessons provide an opportunity for young people to explore and express their moral and spiritual values in a way that is relevant to their lives, their school, and their community. Occasional forums, seminars and workshops are offered for the senior school and are advertised at the time. Mr Fleming is also an active member of the school’s welfare committee and is involved in leadership training and is involved in Peer Support. He also provides individual pastoral care when needed or requested. AREA is an initiative of the Alstonville Ministers’ Association and is non-denominational, non-sectarian, and operates within Departmental guidelines.
In recognising Departmental guidelines the Special Religious Education lessons are not mandatory. However, if you do not wish your child to attend a letter requesting exemption must be forwarded to the school.