Become a CRE Teacher
What is CRE?
Frequently asked questions
Life Choices
Apply now to become a CRE Teacher
What is Christian Religious Education (CRE)?
Christian Religious Education means learning to understand and appreciate the beliefs by which people live, as an aid to the development of a student’s own beliefs and values. While acknowledging that there are other views about life that could have a place in religious programmes, it is appropriate in New Zealand to give particular emphasis to the Christian faith, the Bible, and the life and teachings of Jesus, because of their pervasive influence through our cultural heritage and history, and their continuing power and relevance.
Who is responsible for Religious Education?
The Churches Education Commission (CEC) acts on behalf of Christian churches as the agency responsible for Christian Religious Education (CRE) in state schools. CEC volunteers are trained and accredited as CRE teachers, and undergo police vetting. They work to CEC’s Code of Expectations and teach from an approved curriculum. The Board of Trustees of each school decides whether to offer CRE, based on the decision of its parents. The Principal and Board approve the teachers and the teaching material.
What Curriculum is used?
CEC resources and encourages all teachers to use an educationally sound curriculum which uses the student’s interests and experience as a starting point in allowing them to learn by exploration and discovery. It is Bible based. Lessons are non sectarian and respect any student’s existing faith commitment. The material links readily into a school’s Values Education programme.
Frequently asked questions
1) How do I become a CRE teacher?
Volunteers are required to go through an accreditation process and this involves the following:
- Police Check
- Church Endorsement
- Basic Training Course (or iLearn)
- Observed Lesson
2) What is the weekly time commitment for being a CRE teacher?
CRE is usually taught for 30 minutes once a week. In addition to this a teacher needs to allow time for preparation. Preparation time varies but a new teacher should expect to spend at least two hours preparing per week.
3) Can I stop being a CRE teacher at anytime?
There is an expectation that in becoming a CRE teacher, where at all possible, you commit to a minimum of one year of teaching.
4) Which school can I teach at?
We will endeavor to place you at a school in the area of your choice.
5) When can I start teaching?
Once you have completed a police check, you are able to begin helping in a school. Before teaching a class alone, you will need to have begun the Basic Training course (or iLearn) and have been endorsed by your church.
6) What happens if I am going to be away for a week or more during the term?
It is important that you notify your Team Leader of your absence as early as possible. They will work with you to try and find a replacement teacher.
7) Where does the curriculum material come from?
The CRE curriculum is published in Australia and the Life Choices material has been written and produced in New Zealand by CEC.
The Team Leader at your school will organise the curriculum material for you.
8) What provision in the law allows CRE to be taught in schools?
State funded schools have the right under the Education Act 1964 to have religious instruction as part of their school programme.
9) What is the Churches Education Commission (CEC)?
CEC is the organisation responsible for coordinating Christian Religious Education (CRE) and chaplaincy in state schools throughout New Zealand. CEC provides support and training to all its’ volunteer teachers.
Life Choices
Life Choices is a curriculum written by Kiwis ideally suited for use in a large group context (for example several classes combined). To find out more about Life Choices please contact our office on 09 526 0052.
Apply now
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Or to register for online training click here.
