In NSW public schools, SRE participation is not automatic. Parents must actively enrol their child by completing a consent form — usually provided as part of the school enrolment pack or available from the front office. If you've never filled out this form, your child is most likely not attending SRE, even if the school offers it.
SRE Is Opt-In
How to Enrol
Ask at the front office for the SRE consent form, or check the school's website under 'SRE' or 'Religious Education'. You will choose from the available providers at your school — there will typically be an Anglican/Christian option, a Catholic option, and possibly others depending on your school's community. Complete the form and return it to the office. Your child will be placed in the relevant group from the next available SRE session.
What If My School Doesn't Offer SRE?
If your school doesn't currently have an SRE program, it usually means there are no approved volunteers active there at the moment — not that the school won't allow it. Contact your local Anglican or evangelical SRE provider and let them know you'd like to see SRE at your child's school. They will often approach the school to establish a program if parent interest is confirmed.
What Happens If My Child Is Not Enrolled in SRE or Ethics?
Students not enrolled in either SRE or Ethics engage in meaningful learning activities supervised by school staff during the SRE period. They are not simply left unsupervised. If you are unsure whether your child is currently enrolled, ask the front office — they will be able to tell you immediately.
