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The Right To Withdraw From PRS

Religion and belief have become increasingly visible in contemporary public life, making it essential that all students have the opportunity to engage meaningfully with Religious Education (RE). At Sandy Secondary School, we recognise the value of RE in helping young people understand diverse worldviews, develop critical thinking, and build respect for different communities.

However, we understand that families may hold different perspectives on religious education. In accordance with UK education law, parents of students at our community school (or students themselves if aged 18 or over) may request that their child be excused from all or part of the RE curriculum provided by the school.

We strongly encourage parents considering withdrawal to first explore what RE involves and what topics are covered in our curriculum. Our team is happy to discuss the content, aims, and benefits of our RE programme with you. This conversation can help ensure that any decision is made with full understanding of what your child would be missing.

If you do wish to proceed with withdrawal, please be clear about whether this applies to the entire RE curriculum or only specific units or topics. We will work with you to clarify the exact scope of the withdrawal request. It is important to note that no reasons for withdrawal need to be provided.

For further discussion about our RE curriculum or to arrange a conversation with staff, please contact us on 01767 680598 or email parentcontact@sandysecondaryschool.com.

Sandy Secondary School RE

Important Information

Limitations of Withdrawal

If students are withdrawn from RE, schools have a duty to supervise them, though not to provide additional teaching. A student may be required to work in another area of the school, such as the library or break-out area. Parents should note that children may still encounter religions, beliefs, and wider aspects of faith in other areas of the curriculum from which there is no right of withdrawal. Spontaneous questions about religious matters may arise in subjects such as history or citizenship (PSHE), where schools promote community cohesion and help students understand ideas about identity, diversity, feelings, and emotions within both religious and non-religious contexts.

Managing Withdrawal

If students are withdrawn from RE, schools have a duty to supervise them, though not to provide additional teaching or to incur extra cost. Students will usually remain on school premises where it is feasible and appropriate. Where a request for withdrawal is made, the school must comply and excuse the student until the request is rescinded. Though not legally required, it is good practice for the Executive Principal or Head of School to invite parents to discuss their written request.

Legal Framework

The right to withdraw from Religious Education is established under Section 71(3) of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. This legislation provides parents with the right to request that their child be excused from all or part of RE provision at community, foundation, or voluntary schools.