Over its short four-year history Northbourne Public School has worked hard to foster a positive and inclusive environment where all students can access the best possible Special Religious Education (SRE).

In a multicultural, multifaith school, that means having well-trained teachers to deliver SRE in a range of religions including Hindu, Sikh, Islam, Combined Christian and Catholic. For the non-religious students, it also offers special education in ethics classes.

Those efforts were recognised when Deputy Premier and Education Minister, Prue Car, presented the school with a Building Social Cohesion Award at the bi-annual multifaith Parliamentary Celebration of Special Religious Education (SRE) in November.

Officially, the award recognised Northbourne’s “progress in collaborating with a variety of SRE providers (and following departmental policy along the way)”.

Northbourne Public School Principal, Michele Hedge, said she was “proud” to receive the award, but it was “totally unexpected”.

“In times that things are happening all around the world, it’s great to receive this award,” Ms Hedge said. “We are a very multicultural school, and this (award) only enhances what we have been doing in the last four years more broadly.

“We make a great effort to ensure proper scripture teaching at the school. If they (SRE providers) have a problem they reach out to us, and we fix it. We’re easy to work with and support them to make sure scripture teaching is relevant to all faith groups.”

Beyond scripture classes, the school also aims to educate all its students about different religions through class work and also celebrating major religious festivals like Diwali, Easter, and Ramadan.

South Creek Director Educational Leadership (DEL), Kerrie Beeby, said Northbourne Public School being acknowledged gave her “an opportunity to reflect on SRE in NSW public schools”.

“It’s really remarkable that we have different religions and faiths being taught, and celebrated, side by side in our schools each week and it happens without fuss or bother,” Ms Beeby said.

“At a time when religious acceptance is so important, SRE helps build community cohesion, helps students feel a sense of belonging and underpins our country’s multicultural values. 

“This weekly routine is unique to public education and is another way our system stands out from the rest.”

To strengthen inclusion and safety for students, families and staff of faith in NSW public schools, the Department of Education has established a Religious Intolerance Helpline. The service helps students and staff who have experienced or witnessed religious bullying or intolerance and supports school leaders to address incidents.

Students, parents and carers can now call 1300 679 332 and be referred to specific religious bullying or intolerance support.

More information about reporting religious bullying or intolerance can be found here.