Religious Education (RE) remains a key component of the curriculum in UK schools, playing a vital role in fostering understanding, tolerance, and critical thinking among pupils of all backgrounds. Despite changing social attitudes and growing religious diversity, RE continues to be a subject of legal and educational importance across the four nations of the UK.
A Legal Obligation
In England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, the provision of Religious Education is a statutory requirement, though the approach and content vary.
England and Wales
In England, RE is a compulsory subject in all state-funded schools, including academies and free schools. However, it is not part of the National Curriculum. Instead, local Standing Advisory Councils on Religious Education (SACREs) develop agreed syllabuses for maintained schools. These reflect the local religious landscape and must be broadly Christian in character, while also incorporating teachings on other major religions and, increasingly, non-religious worldviews like Humanism.
The Education Act 1944 and subsequent legislation enshrined the place of RE in schools, and the 1988 Education Reform Act reinforced its importance. Parents retain the right to withdraw their children from RE, and sixth-form students may choose to opt out themselves.
Wales, since the introduction of the new Curriculum for Wales in 2022, has renamed the subject Religion, Values and Ethics (RVE). The curriculum places greater emphasis on pluralism, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning. The right to withdraw has also been removed for RVE in maintained schools.
Scotland
In Scotland, RE is referred to as Religious and Moral Education (RME) in non-denominational schools and Religious Education in Roman Catholic schools. It is a statutory part of the Curriculum for Excellence, with a strong emphasis on personal reflection, moral development, and respect for different beliefs. While parents can withdraw children from RME, this is relatively rare.
Northern Ireland
Here, RE is taught according to a core syllabus developed by the four main Christian churches. Although this often focuses more heavily on Christianity, there is increasing recognition of the need for broader inclusion of world religions and ethical discussions. Parents may also withdraw their children from RE.
A Changing Landscape
The UK is increasingly diverse in terms of faith and belief. According to the 2021 Census, fewer than half of people in England and Wales now identify as Christian, with growing numbers identifying with other faiths or no religion at all. This shift has led to debates about the content, scope, and relevance of RE.
Critics argue that some syllabuses remain too focused on Christianity or fail to reflect contemporary society. Advocates for reform push for more inclusive curricula that explore a wider range of beliefs, philosophies, and ethical issues.
The Value of Religious Education Today
Despite these debates, many educators and scholars emphasise the continued value of RE. It helps students
- understand diverse beliefs and cultures
- develop empathy and respect
- engage in critical thinking about moral and philosophical questions
- explore their own values and identity
A well-taught RE curriculum doesn’t preach – it provokes thought, encourages dialogue, and builds the skills needed to live in a pluralistic society.
Conclusion
The provision of Religious Education in UK schools is at a crossroads. While the legal requirement remains, its form and function are evolving. As society becomes more religiously and philosophically diverse, so too must RE. The goal should be an inclusive, thoughtful, and relevant subject that equips all pupils – whatever their background – for life in a complex world.