‘Shameful’: Fury as Sydney school allows students to opt out of Anzac Day commemoration

A Sydney primary school has come under fire after giving parents the option to withdraw their children from an Anzac Day service, with furious veterans, parents and Daily Telegraph readers slamming the move.

A Sydney primary school’s decision to let students opt out of an Anzac Day commemoration has sparked outrage, with furious parents, veterans and Daily Telegraph readers calling it a disgraceful move that disrespects Australia’s military history.

Sherwood Ridge Primary School in Kellyville sent an email to parents last week informing them they could request for their children to skip the school’s Anzac service on April 10.

The event is being held early due to school holidays.

The decision was made after a small group of Christian parents—believed to be from the Exclusive Brethren—requested their children be exempt from the commemoration.

However, the school expanded the opt-out option to all families, a move critics have blasted as unnecessary and disrespectful.

Sherwood Ridge Public School is allowing students to opt out of the Anzac Day service in order to accommodate a small number of Christian students. Picture: Google

Veterans, parents and Daily Telegraph readers have slammed the school’s handling of the issue, arguing Anzac Day is a fundamental part of Australian history that all students should learn about.

“Teachers are no longer respected,” Paul said.

“Please the minority and offend the majority—it’s the Marxist Labor way,” Douglas added.

“No way. They can discuss changing everything else, but Anzac Day is sacred. Cut funding 100 per cent,” another commented.

Former Veterans Affairs Minister David Elliott said the decision was “speechless” and an insult to the families of fallen soldiers.

The decision has sparked outrage among veterans.

“They can’t opt out of their mourning, so I don’t know why anyone would want to opt out of this,” he said.

“I’m calling on the Premier to swiftly intervene.”

Former Commando and RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge said Anzac Day was a solemn occasion that should be respected.

“It’s important to understand that Anzac Day is not a celebration of war; in fact, Anzac Day commemorates the horrors of war and ensures the sacrifices of those who served and died are never forgotten,” he said.

Parents have also taken to social media to voice their frustration.

“I’m disgusted,” one mother said.

“To acknowledge what our forefathers fought for, to ensure we’re a country that remains free, is to be respected.”

“Anzac Day is part of the Australian history curriculum. It’s not glorifying war; it’s teaching students to honour those who fought for our and their freedom,” another said.

Other Telegraph readers believe the school’s decision is part of a broader problem in the education system.

The Education Minister has now intervened, calling on all schools to “respect the tradition” of Anzac Day.

“Defund public education and shut down the Department of Education,” Victor said.

“In Australia, we celebrate the sacrifices made by the ANZACs. Full stop,” Jonathan commented.

“Shameful. Today’s youth need to understand this more than ever,” Christine added.

NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said schools were expected to hold Anzac ceremonies and ensure students learned about the significance of the day as part of their education.

“Anzac Day does not glorify war; rather, it is a poignant time of remembrance to reflect upon the sacrifice our servicemen and women have made to ensure our freedom.”

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Originally published as ‘Shameful’: Fury as Sydney school allows students to opt out of Anzac Day commemoration