Religious Education Code of Expectations
(For voluntary teachers in state schools)

Voluntary teachers are to be a safe, professional Christian presence in a school and are expected to:

1. Accept and teach by the Churches Education Commission Religious Education policy statement. This includes undergoing police vetting, church endorsement, training and accreditation.
2. Teach from a curriculum. The Churches Education Commission encourages all teachers to use a Bible-based and educationally sound curriculum, which uses the students' interests and experience as a starting point in allowing them to learn by exploration and discovery. The preferred curriculum is 'CRE' (previously called 'Religion in Life'). For large classes, 'Life Focus' is also approved.
3. Recognise that in the classroom they represent all member denominations of CEC and teach the key principles of the Christian faith without denominational bias.
4. Seek the school Principal's approval for any promotion of other agencies (e.g. Bible Society, World Vision etc.).
5. Teach positively. Present the Christian message with love. Use language children understand and not religious jargon.
6. Accept that the purpose of Religious Education is to create an awareness of the spiritual dimension and to impart knowledge of the Christian faith. Volunteer RE teachers are 'seed-sowers', to enable the child to make informed choices without any pressure for commitment.
7. Respect the variety of experiences and beliefs represented among the children in the class (and their parents/caregivers). Christian convictions can be affirmed without denying the genuineness of the experiences of others.
8. Always be on time, and leave the class in a settled condition.
9. If unable to be present, ensure that the relieving teacher has the appropriate lesson material and accepts the Code of Expectations.
10. Cooperate with your team leader, the Principal and school staff in every possible way.
11. Abide by the school's policies on behaviour management, discipline, safety, and emergency procedures.

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Additional Information

This Code of Expectations should be read in conjunction with:

• The Churches Education Commission's policy statements
• Choosing the Best Words for Children

RE teachers will seek the advice of the class teacher in:

• Getting to know the children
• Helping any with special problems
• Coordinating the Christian Religious Education programme at relevant points with other curriculum interests and activities