A teacher with red hair and a black top leans over two students of about eight years old, one in a grey jumper and one in a red festive jumper with Minnie Mouse and a snowflake on. Both are writing on sheets of paper.

Humanist Society seeking help on research project about faith schools

December 6, 2023

Humanist Society Scotland is exploring how religious approval requirements for teachers in denominational schools impact those with humanist and non-Christian beliefs. We want to hear from people with first-hand experience of the teacher-approval process, including teachers, former teachers, administrative staff, parents/carers, pupils and ex-pupils.

Scottish law requires prospective teachers at denominational schools to seek approval from a relevant religious authority. The vast majority of denominational schools in Scotland are Roman Catholic. The necessary approvals are provided by the Scottish Catholic Education Service. We are also speaking to organisations such as trade unions and employing bodies about these requirements.

Please email reports, comments, and questions to campaigns@humanism.scot. We will respect the confidentiality of all communications.

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