Reclaiming our ‘Own selves’

This chapter focuses on the position of religious and moral education in the curriculum in the non-denominational school sector in Scotland and discusses the contested nature of this subject in the curriculum. It provides some information on the state-funded school system in Scotland and the position of religious education (RE) in the curriculum. The chapter examines the contested position of religious education subject in Catholic schools and religious and moral education in non-denominational schools. It outlines the arguments provided in opposition from the secular lobby and the challenges that have been raised by the changes in the religious demographics in Scotland. The chapter argues that the scope of global citizenship should have a greater focus on multi-religious diversity to reflect the importance of religion in the lives of many people in the world. It suggests ways in which some of the arguments outlined in the rationale for religious and moral education, as articulated by the curricular documents, can be strengthened.