The Children, Schools and Families Select Committee will today hear evidence about the impact of faith schools on Britain . Two of the key expert witnesses to the Committee will be Rebecca Allen ( Institute of Education ) and Anne West (LSE), who earlier this year published a report on covert social selection in faith schools. The committee will also hear from other academics working in the field, and representatives of the Church of England and Catholic church.
The hearing comes in light of new concerns over the effects of faith schools on school admissions and social cohesion. In January there was a public outcry when David Cameron expressed support for parents who pretend to be Christian to get their child a place at a faith school, and many have questioned the wisdom of a system that divides children according to the background of their parents.
“It is bizarre that the government can talk about community cohesion and equality of opportunity while at the same time expanding the number of faith schools, which are unnecessary, divisive and unfair. Poll after poll has shown that faith schools are not supported by the public and there is a wealth of research to show that religious schools cherry-pick the best pupils. We hope that Ed Balls will listen to the evidence presented here today and begin to promote a fair school system that is open to all.” Said Andrew Copson , Director of Education and Public Affairs at the British Humanist Association.
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For more information please contact the BRITISH HUMANIST ASSOCIATION:
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