Can a parent withdraw their child from RE and Collective Worship?

RE is for all pupils and every pupil is legally entitled to Religious Education as part of a ‘broad and balanced’ curriculum. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from RE on the grounds that they wish to provide their own RE. Their request should be in writing to the Headteacher of the school and should make clear to them whether it is from all the subject or just part. The school has to make it clear what the educational objectives and the content of R.E. are so parents can make an informed choice. Where a parent withdraws their child, the school has a duty to supervise them – but not to provide additional teaching or incur cost.