Religious Education (RE) is an important part of our broad and balanced curriculum. It helps students understand different beliefs, values and world views, and contributes to their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

However, under the School Standards and Framework Act, parents and carers have the legal right to withdraw their child from all or part of Religious Education, should they wish.

Considering withdrawal

Before making a request, we encourage parents to contact the school. A brief conversation can help clarify the aims of our RE curriculum and how it is taught. Schools are permitted to ask about the reason for withdrawal but cannot require an explanation, and parents may withdraw from specific parts or the whole curriculum.

We aim to ensure families are fully informed, as RE at Deptford Green (like many inclusive, non‑faith schools) is educational rather than devotional. It does not promote any particular belief system.

How to make a request

To withdraw your child from RE, please:

1. Submit your request in writing for the attention of Ms Ahmed, Assistant Headteacher, via email: info@deptfordgreen.co.uk
2. Indicate whether your request concerns all RE lessons or a specific part of the curriculum.

The school will keep a written record of the request.

What happens when a child is withdrawn?

• The school continues to be responsible for supervising the student during RE lessons.
• Schools are not required to provide additional teaching during this time, and pupils usually remain on school premises.

Please note: Students may still encounter references to religion within other areas of the curriculum (e.g., History, and PSHE), from which there is no right to withdraw.