Many parents are vaguely aware of their right to withdraw their children from school RE lessons.

However, most are not aware that in the event of formal withdrawal, National Curriculum subjects may be substituted in their place. This has now been officially acknowledged by the DfES after a recent test case. Clarification on the matter was sought after 50 per cent of parents at the Helston School in Cornwall withdrew their children from RE lessons, and successfully requested the substitution of a core National Curriculum subject.

Many local parents may also wish to exercise their rights in full. The only legal requirement is a letter to the school head teacher formally requesting the removed of the child from RE lessons, and the substitution of a core curriculum subject.

Larry Wright

Kent Road

Old Town

Swindon