Ruane attempts to clarify opt-out from RE

As one of her final actions as Minister of Education, Caitriona Ruane has attempted to clarify the situation on opting out of Religious Education in schools in Northern Ireland. In response to a written question from Green Party MLA Brian Wilson, Ms Ruane stated: 'My Department has informed schools of their requirements and responsibilities to publish information in their schools prospectuses, including the teaching of Religious Education and parents’ right to withdraw their children. Additionally, new guidance provided recently for school governors in the on-line guide ‘Every School a Good School – The Governors’ Role’ includes a specific focus on the provision of religious education and highlights specifically parents’ right to withdraw their children along with governors’ responsibilities in relation to the promotion of equality, good relations and diversity. In line with this guidance, I expect schools to ensure that parents are notified of the facility to opt out of religious education and the arrangements for making alternative provision for pupils.'

You can find this statement at the NI Assembly website.

You can also find the Department's guidance on religious education for Governors at 'Every School a Good School - The Governor's Role'