RE
At Putteridge within PSHCRE we are passionate about creating a safe space for students to think critically, and be healthy, respectful citizens who can confidently and safely contribute to society.
Students are encouraged to evaluate evidence, debate ideas, make persuasive arguments, and justify their conclusions. The study of PSHCRE allows students the opportunity to take action on issues that they are passionate about thereby playing a positive role in life beyond the classroom. This is a passion for our department, and we achieve this by adapting our curriculum to include current events in the world. All students are encouraged to use technical language within both written work and discussions.
PSHCRE makes a distinctive contribution to the school by developing students’ knowledge and understanding of religious beliefs, practices, language, and traditions and their influence on individuals, communities, societies, and cultures. It enables students to consider and respond to a range of questions and the development of values and attitudes.
Through the PSHCRE curriculum, we cover a range of religions as well as other crucial topics such as LGBTQIA+, anti-racism, money skill, and mental health. We have a strong relationship and sex education program for each year group to encourage independent thinkers to have the knowledge to live a healthy safe life. We understand we have an incredibly diverse community in Luton and this is something we want to celebrate with our students, allowing everyone to feel heard and appreciated.
Curriculum Documents
Right to Withdraw from Religious Education (RE)
Right to Withdraw from Religious Education (RE) – Parent Guidance
As per government guidance, parents have the legal right to withdraw their child from Religious Education (RE) in schools. This document outlines the process for requesting withdrawal and the implications of such a decision.
Your Rights as a Parent
- Under the Education Act 1996 and the School Standards and Framework Act 1998, parents have the right to withdraw their child from all or part of RE lessons.
- Schools must comply with withdrawal requests and do not require parents to provide a reason for their decision.
- Pupils over the age of 16 may decide for themselves whether to withdraw from RE.
Process for Withdrawing a Child from RE
If you wish to withdraw your child from RE lessons, please follow the process outlined below:
Submit a Written Request
- Write a formal letter or email to the Headteacher stating your request to withdraw your child from RE. Include:
- Your child’s full name
- Their year group and class
- Whether you wish to withdraw from all RE lessons or specific parts
- The preferred start date for withdrawal
Meeting with the School (Optional but Recommended)
- While not mandatory, we encourage parents to discuss their decision with the school to understand the curriculum and implications of withdrawal.
- The school may provide information on how RE is delivered to ensure an informed decision is made.
Confirmation of Withdrawal
- The school will acknowledge receipt of the request in writing and confirm arrangements for supervision during RE lessons.
- If alternative education is being arranged by the parents, details should be communicated to the school.
Supervision Arrangements
- The school remains responsible for the supervision of students withdrawn from RE.
- Students may remain in class without participating or be given alternative supervised activities at the school’s discretion.
Reversing the Decision
- Parents can reverse the withdrawal decision at any time by submitting a written request to the school.
Important Notes
- The right to withdraw applies solely to RE lessons and does not extend to other subjects where religious themes may arise naturally (e.g., history, literature).
- Schools are not required to provide alternative RE lessons but will ensure the child remains supervised.
- Parents arranging alternative religious education must do so outside of school hours.
For further information, please refer to government guidance on Religious Education or contact the school administration. If you have any other queries please contact the Head of RE, sfoulkes@putteridgehigh.org