Religious Instruction
Queensland state schools embrace a multitude of cultural, religious and non-religious beliefs. Under the Education (General Provisions) Act 2006, schools are to provide Religious Instruction (RI) if approached by a faith group seeking to provide RI and students of that faith attend the school.
RI informs students about the beliefs and values of a particular religion. It is delivered by volunteers of a faith group using instructional materials approved by that faith group. RI is required to be consistent with legislation and Department of Education policies and procedures.
All RI instructors must hold a blue card and participate in compulsory Student Protection and Code of Conduct training. RI instructors are only entitled to deliver the RI program outlined below. A school staff member will be present during the delivery of 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 Application for student enrolment 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.
Below is a description of the RI currently available at Jinibara State School.
Participating faith groups: Narangba Baptist Church, Mueller Community Church, Heartlife Church, Rivers Church of Christ, AXIS Church
Authorised program: Beginning with God, Connect, God space
Aims and goals:
- To educate children about the Christian Faith
- To promote understanding and discussion of issues in relation to Biblical teaching
- To promote Education Queensland values
- To promote understanding of Biblical references in literature and the arts
Lesson structure: A 30 minute RI lesson will take place weekly by an approved volunteer with supervision by a class teacher.
Parents of students participating in these programs will be advised if a faith group requires funds to cover the expense of materials used in RI.
Students who are not participating in RI will be provided with other instruction and independent work in a nearby classroom.
Parents will be advised of any changes to the RI and other instruction programs to ensure they are able to make an informed decision on their child’s participation.