It has been brought to our attention that with the limited school camp sites available throughout NSW that some of the owners of camp sites are including various terms and conditions not previously experienced. These added provisions are deemed not to be in the best interest with the values of Public Education. For example, the camp employees are delivering religious faith related speeches to attending students.

Please be aware there are legal and reputational issues with schools booking private camps that require religious teaching. It goes against the legal requirement for instruction at school to be secular under section 30 of the Education Act. Also, there is potential reputational damage for schools when these camps insist on this delivery. The potential reputational damage is both with the school and broader community. If you are aware of this requirement it is recommended you call DoE Legal Services or email greg.mclaren@det.nsw.edu.au. If available, it is suggested schools use the NSW State Sport and Recreation facilities for school organised camps.