Humanist Representation on the West Sussex SACRE October 2006
Introduction This presentation involves answering six questions, some of which were raised at the last meeting It lasts about 15 minutes If you have any queries, please make notes, and I will try to answer them at the end Please stop me if anything is unclear Copies of the presentation and notes will be available after the meeting. It can also be downloaded from my website www.MidSussexFreethinkers.org.uk
Topics of Discussion What is Humanism? Who are humanists? Why should Humanism be represented on the SACRE? Who wants Humanism included in RE? Why the British Humanist Association? Why should Andrew Edmondson be the humanist representative? Other questions
What is Humanism? A non-religious worldview or philosophy Religious and supernatural beliefs are unnecessary Reason, experience and shared human values We have only one life Humanists take responsibility for their actions Moral values founded on human nature and experience No obligatory rituals, texts, meetings, etc. Humanism encompasses atheism and agnosticism Individual rights and freedoms; responsibility and mutual respect People will continue to find solutions to the world's problems Humanists are positive
Who are humanists? Most humanists do not know they are humanists 2001 census: Non-religious: second largest "belief" group (2001 census) Home Office survey (2004): 22% of people have no faith religion plays little part in the lives of most Christians Other surveys: 30-40% of adults are atheists/agnostics 65% of young people are atheists/agnostic The BHA conservatively estimates that it represents 10% of the population It is not necessary for a humanist to be a member of the BHA
Why should Humanism be represented on the SACRE? Religions and Humanism are worldviews Children are entitled to learn about all worldviews RE to include non-religious pupils’ and parents’ beliefs Non-Statutory Framework for RE Inclusiveness is an important principle underlining good RE Recommends pupils study secular philosophies Humanist representative advice on syllabus/assemblies
Who wants Humanism included in RE? QCA Religious Education Council of England and Wales Department for Education and Skills Church of England GCSE examination boards Human Rights Act SACREs
Why the British Humanist Association? The largest organisation that represents non-believers Working parties, committees and consultations: DfES QCA (Non-statutory National Framework for RE) Religious Education Council of England and Wales Ofsted Dept of Health Teenage Pregnancy Unit Sex Education Forum Ministers and MPs Numerous SACREs Media, education journals, educational publishers Produces a wide range of materials for use in schools Thousands of people use the BHA every year Founded the Norham Foundation, a member of the REC
Why should Andrew Edmondson be the humanist representative? Raised a Christian but humanist for the last 30 years My background is in education Author of mathematics textbooks for all ages Active member of my local community I created the website www.MidSussexFreethinkers.org.uk I work well with others I could make a positive contribution to this SACRE I have the support of the BHA