Every fortnight, in classrooms across NSW, Muslim children sit down with a volunteer teacher. The aim is not to memorise facts for a test but to connect with their faith, their identity and their community. This is Islamic Special Religious Education (ISRE), a program that exists only because dedicated volunteers choose to show up.
SRE is education provided to students in NSW public schools by authorised representatives of approved religious groups, delivered to students whose families have nominated that religion. These classes are commonly known as “scripture”.
Carrying forward the noble Islamic tradition of seeking and sharing knowledge, ISRE provides Islamic education to Muslim students in NSW public schools.
It is a project of the Islamic Council of NSW (ICNSW) and has been running since the early 1980s. ICNSW is an approved Special Religious Education provider recognised by the Department of Education.
ISRE lessons offer a tailored Islamic education for Muslim students, covering the basics of Islam while nurturing a strong sense of identity, purpose and belonging.
The goal is to inspire students to lead productive lives and contribute positively to themselves, their families, their communities and the wider world.
The program is non-sectarian and open to all Muslim students regardless of sectarian background, with one simple aim: to help students love, learn and live Islam.
Every ISRE class depends on a volunteer who gives their time so that no child misses out.
Volunteers include university students, working professionals, parents and community elders, all committed to the next generation.
They are trained, authorised and supported by ICNSW, and for many children they provide the first and only structured introduction to their Deen at school. ISRE is proud of them and invites you to join them.
Right now, schools across NSW are asking for more ISRE classes than the organisation has volunteers to teach.
Every class without a teacher is a missed opportunity for a child to grow in their faith and identity. If you can spare a few hours every fortnight, you can make a real difference.
No formal teaching background is required, just a willingness to learn, a love for your Deen and a caring heart for children. ICNSW provides training, resources and ongoing support.
Become an ISRE volunteer today and help a child love, learn and live Islam.
May Allah reward all who give their time to our children.
For more information, visit www.isre.org.au, email info@isre.org.au or call 02 9708 0880. You are also welcome to visit ISRE’s office at 71-75 Wangee Rd, Lakemba 2195.
