UK Supreme Court Rules Re Taught in Ni Schools Is Unlawful

Supreme Court Ruling on Religious Education in Northern Ireland

The UK Supreme Court has ruled that Christian-focused religious education (RE) taught in schools in Northern Ireland is unlawful. This landmark decision marks a significant shift in the legal landscape of RE and collective worship practices in the region.

Background of the Case

The case originated from an unnamed father and daughter, who challenged the legality of the teaching of RE and the practice of collective worship at their primary school. The proceedings involved complex points of law that affected not only this specific family but also broader issues related to religious education in Northern Ireland.

Supreme Court’s Ruling

The Supreme Court, in a unanimous judgement, backed the original High Court ruling from 2022 which held that both RE and collective worship at the school followed the core syllabus specified by the Department of Education (DE) were not conveyed “in an objective, critical, and pluralistic manner.” This means that the religious education did not present a balanced view of various religious beliefs.

The court made it clear that this decision was not about secularism in the education system. Instead, it stated, “no one is suggesting that RE should not be provided in schools in Northern Ireland.” However, the ruling highlighted the necessity for revising the RE syllabus to ensure it is more inclusive and pluralistic.

Reactions from Stakeholders

The Department of Education’s spokesperson said they would carefully consider the complex judgement and its implications before providing advice to schools. Meanwhile, Darragh Mackin, who represented the father and daughter, described the decision as a “watershed moment for educational rights in this jurisdiction.” He emphasized that schools must not place children in an impossible position where they are singled out or stigmatized due to their families’ different religious beliefs.

Reverend Andrew Forster, the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, expressed his support for the provision of RE but called for its critical and objective delivery. He stated that the ruling brings a long court process to a conclusion and should provide clarity and direction in respect of both the teaching of religious education and collective worship in schools.

Political parties have also reacted to the ruling.

The Green party’s councillor, Anthony Flynn, congratulated the family and said it is “hugely significant” for ensuring that no child in a publicly-funded school should be pushed into a religious worldview that isn’t theirs. He added that this decision provides an opportunity to update Northern Ireland’s education framework.

On the other hand, Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) MP Carla Lockhart expressed disappointment and concern over the ruling, emphasizing her party’s commitment to promoting Christian values in schools. Alliance Party assembly member Nick Mathison called for making sure religious education is “critical, objective, and pluralistic” and that schools are inclusive spaces.

Next Steps

The ruling will have significant implications for how RE and collective worship are taught in Northern Ireland’s state-controlled schools. The challenge now lies in the revision of the RE syllabus to ensure it meets the criteria set by the Supreme Court. This process is likely to involve input from various stakeholders, including religious groups and education experts.

The case highlights the ongoing debate around balancing religious freedom with the need for inclusive education in a diverse society. The ruling serves as a reminder that educational practices must evolve to reflect changing social dynamics and legal standards.