What is Religious Instruction (RI)?
RI is the time set aside in Years 1-12 in state schools where parents/carers can consent for their children to be educated in the faith of their choosing. Your child will only be placed in RI if you give your consent. RI is provided by major faith groups in many schools across Queensland.
The Queensland Education (General Provisions) Act (2006) allows accredited representatives of recognised faith groups to make this contribution as part of a holistic approach to education.
RI is one way of promoting the spiritual development and wellbeing of young Australians.
RI lessons are usually conducted for up to 30minutes on a weekly basis throughout the school year.
Who provides RI?
Volunteer RI Instructors from local Christian Churches come together to provide 'Christian RI". These denominations may, among others, include Anglican, Australian Christian Churches, Baptist, Catholic, Churches of Christ, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Salvation Army and Uniting Churches.
All RI instructors must hold a blue card and participate in compulsory Student Protection and Code of Conduct training.
What is taught in RI?
Christian RI instructors use program resource materials which undergo reviews by independent third-party curriculum experts, to ensure they are age-appropriate and meet relevant government legislation and Department of Education policies.
The providers of Christian RI are committed to delivering best practice religious instruction and using high quality program resource materials.
How do I select RI?
Participation in RI is not compulsory. Any student (except Prep students) may participate in RI if a parent has provided written instructions to the school.
Students are allocated to RI based on information provided by parents on the completed Enrolment Application Form unless other written instructions have been provided to the school.
Note: This consent remains in effect unless the parent informs the school otherwise in writing.
Religious Instruction is offered from Year 1 onwards and you can select RI for your child:
· Upon Enrolment by nominating 'Yes' on the Enrolment Application Form
· Anytime via written instruction to the school
Resources:
https://christianri.org.au/files/CRI-6panel-brochure-WEB.pdf
