The British Humanist Association has commented in light of reports that the head of Meersbrook Bank Primary School in Sheffield was forced to leave because to conflicts over collective worship.
Andrew Copson, Director of Education and Public Affairs said:
“It has long been clear that the requirement for schools to hold daily collective worship can create resentment and cause tensions. It’s little wonder that schools with no religious character and attended by children with diverse beliefs often hold inclusive assemblies, not the “broadly Christian” worship required by law.
“Although parents have the right to withdraw their children from worship in any state school, the reality for children who are withdrawn may be that they are left isolated and parents unwilling to inflict this on their children are left in an impossible situation.
“We call on the government to end a situation in which teachers are forced to choose between following the law and holding the inclusive assemblies that best suit their school communities. Inclusive assemblies can be an opportunity in the life of a school to build community and focus on shared values – the current law requiring religious worship is a barrier to that, and can fuel rather than ease tensions in our diverse society.”
Notes
For comment or information, contact Andrew Copson, Director of Education, on 020 3675 0959.
The British Humanist Association (BHA) is the national charity representing the interests of the large and growing population of ethically concerned non-religious people living in the UK. It exists to support and represent such people, who seek to live good lives without religious or superstitious beliefs.