In response to recent debate about inclusion of the Bible in the National Curriculum, National President Julia Melland said the focus on one text is not helpful for either the debate or the education of our children.
"There is no doubting that the Bible can be an important part of history and sociological study, particularly for late high school electives and tertiary level study. However, it must be studied in context. If we are going to teach the Bible it must be taught in a secular framework side by side with the Quran and other religious texts."
"The Australian Democrats do not feel that specific inclusion of study of the Bible in a theological way is appropriate in any public school or National Curriculum. Teaching the Bible at school can be problematic for children of other faiths, children of no faith, children from Christian denominations who interpret the Bible differently, as well as being a cause of concern for many parents who are not comfortable with either the religious aspect or the adult themes that are common throughout the text."
Ms Melland continued, "The appropriate place for theological teachings is within either a Christian school environment, where parents are fully aware and expect their children will be taught the Bible, or Sunday School or equivalent in that family's preferred denomination."
Ms Melland argued that while study of important texts that shape our civilisation is very relevant, there are other important texts for young Australians to understand, such as the Australian Constitution.
"That being said, we'd prefer all politics was left out of it," Ms Melland said.
"The Australian Democrats are very supportive of a move to a National Curriculum, but we would prefer to see the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader, and all other members of parliament, restrain themselves from attempting to score cheap political points by interfering in or commenting on what should be in the Curriculum."
Ms Melland concluded, "the National Curriculum should be developed by the best educators we have with their only concern being the best possible curriculum for the education of our children."
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Contact:
Julia Melland
President, Australian Democrats
julia.melland@democrats.org.au
Tel 0431 357 585
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