1. The Religion and Education Policy was published in Government Gazette, Vol. 459, No. 25459 on 12 September 2003. This Gazette is being posted to schools. In the following paragraphs reference is made to certain sections of this policy.

2. The purpose of the policy is to build the community in South Africa by promoting respect for our religious diversity. The policy provides a framework for the appropriate handling of three defined aspects of religion in schools: compulsory Religion Education, regulated Religious Observances and voluntary Religious Instruction.

3. The Department is aware of sensitivity around the policy and wishes to point out that the rights of learners and teachers as set out in Sections 13 and 35 must be respected in terms of the spirit and letter of the policy. Certain provisions of the policy are modified for application in Independent schools (see Section 16).

4. Electronic copies of the policy are obtainable from the WCED website at the following address: http://curriculum.wcape.school.za

5. Additional printed copies of the National Policy on Religion and Education (Government Gazette, Vol. 459, No. 25459 of 12 September 2003) are obtainable from the Government Printing Works (Telephone (021) 465-7531), 90 Plein St, Cape Town, at R5 each. Copies may be requested by post from the Government Printing Works, P.O. Box 571, Cape Town, 8000. Cheques or postal orders must be made out to “Government Printing Works” and must accompany the order.

6. Further information about the curriculum may be obtained from the Life Orientation Curriculum Advisers at EMDCs. Circuit Managers may be approached regarding the implementation of the policy as it relates to Religious Observances and Religious Instruction.


SIGNED: B.K. SCHREUDER
HEAD: EDUCATION
DATE: 2003:10:06