In June 2023, the United Nations expressed concern over the UK’s education system, which requires collective worship of a “broadly Christian character” in all schools. The UN’s committee called for the repeal of this law, urging pupils to have the independent right of withdrawal from religious worship.
This news comes as research from The Children’s Society reveals that young people in the UK have the lowest level of life satisfaction in Europe.
A new book, St Augustine’s Sin, addresses this issue through personal perspectives on faith school education. Written by a former Christian Brothers pupil, the book explains how his life was impacted by guilt and deference. Chapters by a primary school teacher also examine the current teaching in faith schools and its potential effects on children’s vulnerability.
This discussion was further highlighted in 2021 when an inquiry in France reported that children are more likely to be abused within Church settings than state schools, holiday camps and sporting organisations. Around the same time, the UK Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse found that 100 new cases of clerical abuse were reported each year. However, in June 2023, the Church of England sacked the panel of experts who provided independent oversight of its abuse cases.
In St Augustine’s Sin, the author explores why abuse is so prevalent within the Church and why it is so lax in addressing the issue. Detailed notes link to evidence, making for a disturbing read that should alarm all parents.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.