The Scottish Government is changing how schools handle Religious Observance (RO) and Religious and Moral Education (RME). They want to understand what children and young people really think.
Barnardo’s Scotland spoke to 195 young people from across Scotland to gather their real experiences. They were:
- between 9–18-year-olds
- 80% were in Schools and 15% were in Community Groups
- Most were girls (56%), 37% were boys, 1% were non-binary or described themselves in another way (1%), 5% chose not to say
Key findings
- Young people said they want a say in whether they take part. Many felt adults should ask them first before deciding.
- Young people said decisions should be calm conversations where adults listen properly and respect their views.
- Young people had mixed views. Some said younger children need help; others said age shouldn’t stop someone sharing their opinion.
- Young people said RME helps them understand the world, avoid disrespecting others and build life skills.
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