At Sacred Heart College, Religious Education (RE) is a core expression of our identity as a Catholic school in the Mercy tradition.

When families enrol at Sacred Heart, and when staff choose to work here, they make a deliberate commitment to be part of a faith-based learning community. In a society where many non-faith-based schooling options are available, choosing a Catholic school means choosing to engage with the Gospel, the Catholic tradition, and the values that shape our approach to learning and life.

Religious Education is central to this mission. It provides students with the opportunity to explore life’s fundamental questions, engage with the Catholic worldview, and develop a deeper understanding of mercy, justice, and human dignity. Inspired by Jesus’ words in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full,” we see RE as essential to the holistic formation of every student.

Faith formation at Sacred Heart extends beyond the RE classroom. Daily prayer, whole-school liturgies, class prayer services, Masses, retreats, and reflection days are essential components of our educational program. Participation in these experiences is compulsory for all students, as is attendance and engagement in Religious Education classes.

We understand that students come with varied experiences and questions about religion and faith. Respectful dialogue and honest inquiry are encouraged. As members of a Catholic learning community, students are expected to engage fully in Religious Education, demonstrating the same attendance, participation, and learning behaviours required across all subjects.

Where attendance, engagement, or behaviour becomes a concern, teachers will contact families to ensure appropriate support and accountability. Follow-up may include parent meetings and structured catch-up sessions to address missed learning and reinforce expectations.

At Sacred Heart, we are committed to walking alongside every student with respect, compassion, and hospitality, while remaining clear about the shared commitment that sustains our Catholic identity.

We thank our families for the trust they place in us and for partnering with us in this important work of educating “head, heart, and hands” so that, “From a Good Beginning, Mercy Flourishes.”