Schools should teach not preach
(23 June 06)

A debate over religious education in England brings ‘the origin of life’ and ‘collective worship’ into the discussion.

Sixty-seven national science academies claimed that some explanations about the origin of life taught in public schools are: “Concealed, denied, or confused with theories not testable by science.”

They urged teachers to: “Educate all children about the methods and discoveries of science and foster an understanding of the science of nature.”

The scientists did not refer to a particular religious teaching but said: “They must be fully aware of their own areas of action and their limitations.”

Earlier this month leaders of Christian churches called for the government to recognise the importance of daily collective worship in schools. The national secular society hit back: “Neither indoctrination nor proselytising are legitimate functions for any state, far less when they are enforced by law. Schools should be teaching, not preaching.”

Kinson primary school teacher Tracey Munday said it’s important to include diverse religious expressions in children’s courses: “We try wherever possible to take the children out to different places of worship so they can experience hands-on what it’s like.”

Marilyn Hallett, 55, of Lower Fairmead Rd, Yeovil, saw her daughter convert to the Mormon religion when she was 13: “When children become teenagers they are more susceptible and can be pressurised to convert but I don’t think religious education at schools has a lot of influence on children, I think they view it more as a history lesson.”