News by email Donate

Suggestions

school-students-main_article_image.jpg
UK News

Christian Institute forces judicial review into new school rules

It's bringing a judicial review against minister's proposals to make independent schools challenge prejudice against other faiths.

A consultation paper outlines how the Education Secretary Nicky Morgan, who's a Christian, would be able to take 'regulatory action' against private schools that tolerate homophobia or sexism.

It also says she would be able to step in when prejudice against other faiths is "encouraged or not adequately challenged."

The Christian Institute is claiming the proposals mean the Education Secretary could force other religious festivals to be given the same prominence as Christmas or prompt legal actions which the institute claims could result in some schools choosing to stop celebrating Christmas to avoid possible repercussions.

Colin Hart, chief executive of the institute, accused the government overreacting, on Premier's 'News Hour', he said: "You may or may not agree with it, but one thing you can't do is sue the school over the way in which history is taught or maths is taught or whatever subject there is, because the law excludes discrimination from the content of the curriculum, but that's to change for independent schools, free schools and academies"

A Department for Education spokesperson said: "The Independent School Standards are designed to ensure every school prepares children for life in modern Britain. We make no apology for demanding high standards and the promotion of tolerance and respect of all faiths and cultures.

"It is simply untrue to say that the proposed changes - which received 1400 responses in the last six weeks - would prevent teachers using gender-specific terms or require schools to downgrade Christian festivals.

"We have received a letter from the Christian Institute's legal representatives and are considering our response."

Colin Hart, Christian Institute:

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate