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The Department of Education has emphasized that schools should continue delivering Religious Education (RE) grounded in “holy scriptures.” Additionally, educational institutions remain legally obligated to conduct collective worship, such as daily assemblies. This guidance was issued by Education Minister Paul Givan in a letter addressed to school principals.
The minister’s communication followed a UK Supreme Court ruling which declared that the Christian-centered RE curriculum in Northern Ireland did not comply with legal standards. Givan acknowledged the complexity of the judgment, stating it could not be disregarded. The court found that RE had not been taught in an “objective, critical and pluralist manner,” and similarly, collective worship was not presented in this appropriate way.
Despite the ruling, Givan highlighted that current legislation has not been repealed. He wrote, “Schools will note, therefore, that both Religious Education and collective worship continue to be a legal requirement.” Furthermore, the judgment recognized Christianity as the predominant religion in Northern Ireland, meaning that a significant portion of Religious Education would continue to focus on Christianity. Still, he noted that the RE syllabus is due for reform, with details on the timeline to be announced.
Regarding collective worship, the minister indicated that further reflection is needed. He stated that while parents retain the right to withdraw their children from these sessions, the Supreme Court found that existing arrangements failed to satisfy legal mandates. Givan’s letter also confirmed that the department is seeking additional legal advice to fully understand the judgment’s implications and promised to issue comprehensive and “legally sound” guidance to schools soon
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