LOCAL authorities have a duty to provide religious observance and religious education in Scottish Schools under the Education (Scotland) Act 1980.

However, legislation on this issue dates back to 1872, when the state introduced compulsory schooling which had previously been provided by churches.

The most recent guidelines published by the Scottish Government state that ministers believe "religious observance to be an important educational experience for children and young people at all stages of primary and secondary school".

Schools should provide opportunities for religious observance at least six times a year, in addition to "traditional celebrations", and preferably with greater frequency, according to the guidance.

They are also encouraged to draw on Scotland's Christian heritage when planning religious observance, but have to take into account pupils and staff from faiths other than Christianity.

Local authorities do have the powers to abolish religious observance in schools under the Education Act, subject to a proposal being approved by a majority of local voters.

Parents also have the right to withdraw children from participation in religious observance. The guidance states the right to do so should "always be made known to parents and their wishes respected".

It states that if a child is withdrawn from religious observance, schools should make suitable arrangements for the child to participate in a "worthwhile alternative activity".

It adds: "In no circumstances should a child be disadvantaged as a result of withdrawing from religious observance."

But it also notes that in denominational schools, it is more difficult to extricate a pupil from "all experiences which are influenced by the school's faith character".

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: "Updated guidance on religious education and observance was published in February 2011.

"Religious education and observance has had a place in Scottish education for generations. As a statutory element of school provision, religious learning is rightly an part of the learning experience for every child and young person in Scotland.

"Education Scotland [a national body meant to support quality and improvement in Scottish education] is currently conducting a review of Religious Education provision and we look forward to receiving their findings."