Supreme Court: NI religious education breaches human rights

The UK Supreme Court has ruled that religious education (RE) and collective worship in Northern Ireland’s controlled schools breach human rights if not delivered in an “objective, critical and pluralistic manner”.

The decision followed an appeal by a Belfast pupil, known as JR87, and her father, who argued that the Christian focus of her school’s teaching conflicted with their beliefs.

The family won their case at the High Court in 2022, but this was overturned by the Court of Appeal. In a unanimous ruling on 19 November 2025, the Supreme Court reinstated the original verdict.

Lord Stephens said the Court of Appeal had “fallen into error” and warned that teaching which is not pluralistic “amounts to pursuing the aim of indoctrination”.

The ruling does not ban Christian worship or education but insists that it must respect the diversity of pupils’ beliefs.

Christian political leaders voiced serious concerns. DUP MP Carla Lockhart said her party would “stand up for the Christian ethos” of schools.

“We are very fortunate in Northern Ireland to have an Education Minister who understands the importance of those Christian foundations... That leadership will be essential as we consider the implications of today’s judgment.

“Parents have always had the ability to opt out of collective worship if they wish, and that will continue”, she added.

TUV leader Jim Allister called the ruling “deeply disturbing”:

“I reject entirely the suggestion that Christian teaching amounts to indoctrination... It is an insult to the thousands of teachers who faithfully and honourably deliver RE.”

The Free Presbyterian Church said it was “dismayed”, warning that the ruling undermines the Christian moral foundation of society.

David Smyth, Head of Evangelical Alliance NI, encouraged Christians not to fear the ruling but to see it as a moment for faithful engagement:

“The court ruling means schools will continue to teach about Christianity but may be required to do so in a more ‘objective, critical and pluralistic manner.’ This already happens in many schools and if done well, will allow the truth and hope of Christianity to shine. Christians should continue to have confidence in the gospel as good news as part of a more plural offering.

"While we acknowledge there will be many questions and concerns from Christian parents and those involved in education, this is not a moment for fear. There is an opportunity here to re-imagine how we engage with education, teach and share Christianity with young people in new and fresh ways.”