Slovakia Primary School Subject: Ethics and Religion (optional)

Ethics

Ethical Education is a compulsory optional subject, meaning students must choose either Ethics or Religion. It is offered in primary and secondary schools. The objective of Ethical Education is to develop ethical awareness and decision-making skills in students. Some research suggests that ethical education can positively influence prosocial behavior in students. In Slovakia, ethics is also incorporated into Civics education.

Religion

Religious Education is the alternative compulsory optional subject to Ethics. It is a confessional subject, and the curriculum must align with the Ministry of Education's National Educational Program. Students from different classes within the same grade may be grouped together for Religion or Ethics classes, with a maximum of 20 students per group. A significant number of primary schools in Slovakia are church schools. Religious education teachers receive specific subject and pedagogical training.