“There are many traditions of Buddhism present in the Australian community today. All believe in the four boundless values of love, compassion, joy and equanimity.”

 “Life in Australia offers a wonderful opportunity to develop and practice our values and traditions in a place where we are able to respect one another and strive toward building a harmonious community.”(“A Sense of Place: Victoria’s Multi-Faith Religious Celebration for Federation" 2001)

Victorians live in a multi-faith community with the opportunity to learn about different philosophies and religious practices. It has never been more important than at the present moment to expose young children to the values of tolerance, co-operation and non-aggression. By making Buddhist teachings available, not only is greater wisdom and compassion encouraged, but Buddhist children in schools feel that their religious and cultural backgrounds are recognized and respected.

The Buddhist Council of Victoria, through the auspices of the World Religions for Peace Australia and the Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood, has created a program  to provide parents and children with the choice of Buddhist Religious Instruction in Victorian Primary State schools.

The Program recognises that peaced and happiness can arise through following the values and ethics of the Dhamma/Dharma, that inspiration and motivation can be derived from the Sangha. Peace, harmony and tolerance are taught through the content of lessons but also through the practice of meditation.

In keeping with contemporary educational methodologies, lessons are built around co-operative and active learning, respecting and drawing on the children’s own experiences.

In selecting and training volunteers the Committee considers potential instructors who will provide the best possible role learning model and environment for children. This includes:

• a knowledge of the Buddhist teachings and values at a level appropriate for primary children, that is not necessarily too academic or theoretical
• awareness of the importance of the religious instructors role in the school community
• preparedness to be accountable to the Committee, provide reports to and engage in on-going professional development

To support the volunteers in this program, the Committee will provide the following:

• initial training of 2 days by experienced teachers and religious instructors, including classroom teaching experience, our 'Discovering Buddha" curriculum and text of 'Prince Siddhartha' by Jone Landaw and Janet Brooke
• a resource library
• list of “Frequently Asked Questions” and answers
• on-going professional development and opportunities to meet regularly with other Buddhist religious instruction volunteers
• support from our Education Officer

The Buddhist Education Committee of the Buddhist Council of Victoria is committed to the provision of quality and unbiased Buddhist religious instruction and learning environments for students in Victorian State Primary schools. The Committee represents a broad range of Buddhist organizations.