A new report from researchers at University College London (UCL) has highlighted that Christian fundamentalists are teaching pupils in British faith schools that creationism is a fact and that climate change is a myth.
Humanists UK expressed alarm at the findings. The charity campaigned successfully for the teaching of evolution in all state schools, and continues to argue strongly for pseudoscientific ideas like creationism and ‘intelligent design’ not to be incorrectly taught as scientific theories.
Concerns had been raised about the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) materials some years ago, when former pupils exposed the creationist and narrow curriculum to Humanists UK’s Faith Schoolers Anonymous website. At the time it was estimated that at least 30 schools in the UK were following such a curriculum. Some of them were since downgraded by Ofsted for failing to promote ‘British values’ of democracy, rule of law, respect and tolerance, and individual liberty.
This new research from UCL demonstrates that lessons have still not been learned, with estimates of at least 11 schools, and an unknown number of home schooled children, still employing the ACE curriculum in parts of the UK today. The report discovered that primary school children are not exposed to any ideas contrary to ACE’s literal interpretation of the Bible until Year 9, which is contrary to current Ofsted guidance.
An example of the creationist approach to science for primary school pupils is illustrated in this extract from the curriculum cited in the article, using God as the explanation for how fish sense their environment:
‘Fish are able to hear because sounds travel to them through water. God gave fish a way to hear sounds in the water. Fish can hear the sound of my footsteps and quickly swim away. God helps fish hear and feel sounds in the water.’
Receiving such a narrow education can leave young adults ill-equipped to deal with the reality of life, something sadly common in other extreme religious fundamentalist settings. The report’s authors, Jenna Scaramanga and Michael Reiss also argue that pupils receiving such education are less likely to go on to choose to study, or succeed, at university.
Humanists UK Education Campaigns Manager Robert Cann said:
‘This report makes for alarming reading. No school in 2023 should be peddling creationism and climate change denialism as fact. But unfortunately the law permits private faith schools to behave in this manner.
‘While we were pleased when the Government issued guidance in 2019 warning private schools about its approach to creationism. Sadly this has clearly not deterred repeat offenders.
‘It’s time to strengthen the law and ensure that all children, no matter where they go to school, can access accurate and unbiased science education. Any parents concerned about the curriculum at their child’s school are encouraged to read our new Guide for Parents on religion in schools.’
Notes:
For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Public Affairs Manager Karen Wright at press@humanists.uk or phone 020 3675 0959.
Read the article from UCL.
Read more about our work on science, evolution, and creationism.
Download our Guide for Parents on religion in schools.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by 110,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.