Poll reveals support for school RE lessons
MORE than half of adults believe that religious education (RE) lessons are worthwhile, with many saying the subject should be compulsory, according to a new poll.
It also found that many people feel that RE allows youngsters to learn about different beliefs and is essential in a multi-faith society.
The survey, commissioned by the Religious Education Council of England and Wales, found that 53 per cent of 1,800 adults questioned in England and Wales believe that RE should be compulsory in all state schools up to the age of 16 while around a third (32 per cent) said it should not be mandatory. The others gave no preference.
Some 58 per cent said it was beneficial for pupils to study the subject at school, with nine per cent saying it was harmful.