A school in Wales has denied claims that it promotes creationism and evangelical Christianity to its pupils.
Llanidloes High School in Powys came under fire after the National Secular Society (NSS) accused the school of pushing Christian views and “undermining evidence-based theories such as evolution” through its teaching material.
The NSS referenced a number of educational posters on science, geography and history which contained verses from the Bible and called for promoting creationism as a scientific theory to be banned in Welsh schools. In England this is already prohibited.
The secular group also claimed that the head teacher, Daniel Owen, was actively promoting the Alpha Course – an introductory course on the Christian faith – to students.
Owen responded to the allegations in a letter to parents on Monday, saying: "We not promote or instil any doctrines or ideologies, nor do we evangelise."
Owen went on: “We continue to develop what inspectors described as ‘a clear vision for [our] Curriculum for Wales’ … and create ‘a caring and supportive environment where all are valued and encouraged to give of their best’.”
Addressing the creationism concerns, Owen stated that the school’s curriculum is in line with the country’s agreed syllabus and religious studies specifications:
“We teach creation, evolution and big bang theories in our religious education lessons,” he said, specifying that their curriculum covers “beliefs and teachings on creation from the Genesis accounts” and “non-religious views on the creation of the universe” from the likes of Stephen Hawking and Richard Dawkins.
Addressing criticism on the school posters, Owen said the displays “complement our broad and balanced curriculum” and include statements by scientists, such as Stephen Hawkins, Richard Dawkins, Isaac Newton and Galileo.
Llanidloes school planners also came under scrutiny for containing suggested scriptures that “may be helpful in times of need".
Referencing a recent inspection of the school, Owen said it had been found to provide excellent pastoral care for students and that the planners contained “wide-ranging and beneficial pastoral information aimed at promoting pupils’ emotional, mental and physical wellbeing and safety”.
Stephen Evans, chief executive of the National Secular Society called for an urgent investigation into evangelism at the school and requested new measures to prohibit the promotion or teaching of creationism within schools in Wales.
According to local news outlets, Powys County Council is in discussions with the school and the Welsh government.
