A bill to amend the Education Act 2001 will broaden the scope of religious education in schools beyond Christianity.
The act currently states religious education should be “wholly or mainly of a broadly Christian character”.
However, the new legislation could see that changed.
Changes to Bill
Along with changes to RE lessons, other changes included in the proposed legislation would see schools be permitted to refuse registration to a child in certain circumstances, even if the child resides within the school’s catchment area.
The Bill also expands the framework for identifying and supporting pupils with additional educational needs, including new mechanisms for associated provision and an independent appeal process for families.
Parents would be required to update the Department for Education annually on the arrangements they have made for educating their children—whether in school or through home education.
In specific situations, the Bill would allow children to receive their education somewhere other than school premises.
Education Act
Looked-after children would also receive strengthened protections, with the legislation aiming to ensure they have access to educational opportunities equivalent to their peers.
The Department for Education would be granted greater autonomy to allocate funding for education and training and new powers to order temporary school closures or close specific year groups when capacity issues arise.
Safeguarding measures form a significant part of the proposals. The Bill authorises the sharing of information for safeguarding purposes and empowers the Department to refuse applications for home education when safeguarding concerns are present.
Officials say the reforms aim to modernise the education system, enhance pupil safety, ensure fair access to learning, and give the Department the flexibility needed to respond to emerging challenges across the sector.
The Bill can be read here.
The second reading of the Education (Amendment) Bill 2025 will take place in tomorrow’s House of Keys sitting.
