1897

What was known as the ‘Nelson System’ allowed schools to close officially for half an hour per week, during which time religious instruction took place.

1949

NZ Council for Christian Education is established. The National Council for Churches cooperated with the Bible in Schools League to form the NZ Council for Christian Education, which liaised between churches and the Education Department to service the Nelson system.

1973

The Churches Education Commission (CEC) was formed as the successor to the NZ Council for Christian Education.

2016

Approximately 2500 volunteers teaching the CRE programme in over 650 schools throughout New Zealand.

THE FUTURE

Excellence in the classroom.

Passing the baton on to the next generation.

Development of innovative CRE programmes and resources.

Adding value to school communities throughout the nation.