As well as being a statutory element of a school's provision, religious observance (RO) also has an important part to play in the development of the learner's four capacities, as a successful learner, confident individual, responsible citizen and effective contributor.
New guidance issued by the Scottish Government clarifies the current position regarding provision of religious observance in Scottish schools and sets out action for local authorities in planning this provision. This new guidance replaces Circular 1/2005.
It has been updated to reflect adoption of Curriculum for Excellence and applies to all primary and secondary schools, including special schools.
The 'Religious Observance Review Group Report', published in 2004, defined RO as:
Report of the Religious Observance Review Group, 2004..community acts which aim to promote the spiritual development of all members of the school’s community and express and celebrate the shared values of the school community.
The new guidance confirms this definition, and states that RO presents opportunities for the school community to reflect upon and develop a deeper understanding of the dignity and worth of each individual and their contribution to the school and wider communities.
In non-denominational schools, assemblies are the most common vehicle for delivering religious observance. Whilst the precise form of religious observance will be determined by each school’s policy within the local authority’s framework, these can include opportunities for class, year, stage or whole school observance as well as involvement by pupils and others, including school chaplains and other faith leaders, in planning and presentation.
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