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.
Emerald Churches Together Religious Instruction
Authorised program: An introduction to Christian Faith and Ethics
Participating faith groups: Presbyterian, Uniting, Baptist, Lutheran, Salvation Army, Anglican, Catholic, Seveth-day Adventist, Hopelands, Christian Assembly, Calvary Christian.
Aims and Goals:
- To introduce students to the stories and teachings of the Bible.
- To promote critical thinking on matters of faith and morality.
Lesson Structure:
Religous Instruction consists of 8 x 1 hour lessons that are conducted during class time. Lessons are split into various components that include audio, visual, reflective and interactive elements that cater for different learning styles. All lessons are conducted in a respectful manner in which all students are given the opportunity to contribute and share their thoughts and opinions.
Year 7 Module Overview
The year 7 lessons centre around an introduction to the Christian Faith. Students investigate the major themes of the Bible, giving them an overview of the Bible and an understanding of who Jesus is. Beginning at Creation and finishing with the new Creation, students will see how the whole Bible fits together and centres around Jesus.
Year 8 Module Overview
Year 8 Religious Instruction lessons focus on the historical figure of Jesus. Students explore the extraordinary life of Jesus; considering his teachings, miracles and death and resurrection. Students are encouraged to see that the Bible portrats Jesus as the 'Man who rules everything'. Showing students that Jesus is the powerful, benevolent ruler we all need.
Year 9 Module Overview
Year 9 Religious Instruction centres on self-identity and how belief in God interacts with your view of self. Students will consider who they are as individuals, their place in the universe and how the life of Jesus is relevant. Students will consider the different reasons for self-worth, and how what Jesus has done can give a new perspective and genuine self-esteem.
Other Instruction
Students who are not participating in RI will be provided with other instruction in a separate supervised location. Other instruction may include:
- personal research and/or assignments
- revision of class work such as creative writing or literacy and/or numeracy activities
- wider reading such as independent reading appropriate to the student
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.
For further information please contact the office on (07) 4988 2222.