What is

ChristianReligiousEducation?

inspire every child to make positive life choices

Equip and inspire every child through values-based Christian Religious Education.

For more information please contact the CEC National Office on 09 526 0052 or office@cec.org.nz

www.cec.org.nz

CRE volunteers consider it a privilege to be invited into a school to offer

the programme. All volunteers are required to abide by the strict Code of

Expectations.

The Code of Expectations include:

1. Become an accredited CRE volunteer by completing the provided training.

2. Teach from the Life Choices curriculum approved by CEC New Zealand.

3. Educate children about values and Christian beliefs. Never evangelise.

4. Use positive language that children understand. No religious jargon.

5. Respect the variety of experiences and beliefs represented by the families

of the children in the class.

6. Always be on time and leave the class in a settled condition. Advise the

school and Team Leader beforehand if you are unable to teach.

7. Co-operate with the CRE Team Leader, Principal and school staff in every

possible way.

8. Abide by the school’s policies on behaviour management, discipline, safety

and emergency procedures.

Code of Expectationsfor CRE Volunteers

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What is the purpose of Christian Religious Education?

Christian Religious Education (CRE) is a fun programme that encourages children to make positive life choices, grow in character and relate well to others. Children learn values that connect with the New Zealand School

Curriculum, as set out by the Ministry of Education, combined with stories and values from the Bible that are relevant to children.

What happens when people have different views?

We live in a very multicultural nation with many different viewpoints. In these lessons, children are affirmed and encouraged for their individuality. Every child, no matter their views, upbringing or religion, is welcome to join in the class.

The programme is delivered in an inclusive and fun manner. Children won’t be preached at and there’s no talk about hell or any other controversial subjects.

Parents can choose if they want their children involved or not and the school is responsible to provide options for any children who opt out.

How long has it been in New Zealand schools?

Children in New Zealand have been taught Christian Religious Education in schools dating back to 1877. In 2017 the Churches Education Commission is one of the largest volunteer organisation in New Zealand and teaches CRE in approximately 650 schools, by 2,500 volunteers to 60,000 children each week.

What will the children learn about?Children learn from a curriculum called Life Choices, written by kiwis, teaching values like:

• Treat others as you would like to be treated

• Show respect

• Do your best

• Be a good friend, be brave and do the right thing

• Help others and ask for help

• Face your problems

• Show self-control

• Make good choices and help others make good choices

• Self-discipline and perseverance

• Patience

• Forgive others, apologise and ask for forgiveness.

Bible in Schools is an amazing programme for our

children. They get to learn songs, values, and stories.

Above all, they learn how to be a better person in life.

PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

Who teaches the classes?

CRE is provided without charge by volunteers from the community. The volunteers are trained, abide by the Code of Expectations and undergo police vetting.

Who decides which schools have a CRE programme?

If your school is offering the opportunity for your child to be involved in Christian Religious Education, it means the School Board of Trustees in consultation with the community believe the CRE curriculum will benefit the school. There are some schools who want the programme, but are on a waiting list until enough volunteers become available.

“I love singing and learning about things in

the Bible.” - Lenitah, 8

“It is so fun.” - Miracle, 8

“We learn new things.” - Kias, 8

“We have a lovely Bible in Schools teacher.”

- Alanna, year 3

“We learn to have compassion, be honest,

be kind to everyone.” - Joshua, year 2

I love CRE because...

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