Parents will be able to choose between ethics and religious education on a single form next year after the NSW government moved to scrap a system that made it harder to opt out of scripture classes.

The new form will inform parents of all the options available at a school. It will replace a version that didn't suggest ethics classes as a possibility, and forced parents to contact the school if they preferred a non-religious alternative.

A new form will let parents choose between religion and ethics during scripture classes. Credit:AP

"We are seeking to resolve the long-standing concerns about transparency relating to parental choice between religious or secular ethics, or nothing at all," said Education Minister Rob Stokes. "This will also make it simpler for schools.

"With the existing process, you are required to effectively label your child. You identify what religion you would like them to be instructed in. Why should governments be collecting data about religious preferences in an education context?"