Dear
Parent/Carer.
School
is now up and running again after what I hope was a great break for all of our
families. I am pleased to say that the rebuilding of the new school continues
apace and that we remain on schedule to complete the first phase by Easter
2015. I am delighted to report that our pupils have performed to a high
standard, once again, in the exams this year; testament to their hard work and
excellent support provided by staff and parents in so many different ways.
During
this session we will be using email to communicate with parents and in this
email I wish to share with you a proposal for JGHS to meet Government
requirements to provide religious observance in our school.
This
consultation was included in the summer 2014 newsletter (on school website) but
as you may have missed it I thought it best to share it with you again so that
you may share your views. This consultation closes on Midnight on Sunday 7
September.
The Education (Scotland) Act 1980 makes it a
statutory duty of the local authority to provide religious observance in
Scottish schools. Guidance provided by The Scottish Government suggests that it
be developed in a way which reflects and understands the diverse faith and
belief traditions represented in Scotland while at the same time being
sensitive to individual spiritual needs and beliefs. The Religious Observance
Review
Group Report (2004) reiterates the view of Scottish
Government Ministers that religious observance is an important educational
experience for children and young people at all stages. At James Gillespie’s
High School we are striving to improve our provision of inclusive religious
observance
under the title used by the Scottish Parliament,
‘Time for Reflection’. The objective is to create a well thought out forum for
personal/spiritual development, which recognises the dignity and worth of each
individual and their contribution to the school and wider community.’
All pupils and staff should be able to participate
fully with integrity without compromising their faith commitment or non-faith
beliefs.
Our proposal for the 2014/2015 session is to enact
the following:
1.
Plan a minimum of six opportunities for ‘Time for
Reflection’ during the school year.
2.
As advocated by the Scottish Secular Society, make
parents/carers explicitly aware of the full extent and nature of ‘Time for
Reflection’ as well as the provision to withdraw children from participation.
We aim to promote a high level of understanding and sensitivity so that there
is no fear that a child would be singled out.
3.
Plan an equal number of worthwhile alternatives for
pupils who are withdrawn by parents from participation in ‘Time for
Reflection’. Allowing a conscious choice, free of compulsion, could make the
entire activity more meaningful.
At present we are drawing up a calendar to mark a
wide range of traditions and practices via an assortment of activities and
forums. As the session gets underway in we would welcome feedback on the above
from our parents, carers and pupils. Contributions and suggestions on how we
might make ‘Time for Reflection’ even more valuable are especially welcome. All
comments should go in the first instance to Mr. J Warden (Pupil Support) via
email: Jeff.Warden@jamesgillespies.edin.sch.uk
We look forward to hearing from you.
The feedback received from parents will be collated and
shared at the first meeting of the Parent Council on the evening of Tuesday 16
September from 7 Pm. All parents/carers are welcome
Yours sincerely,
Donald J Macdonald
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