Humanism in Education

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The Humanist Society of Scotland's campaign is founded on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which "affirms the right of all children to an education that respects both their own cultural values and those of others."

In Scotland, all parents have the right to raise their children in the religion of their choice, and send them to school in the expectation that their faith will be respected - which is as it should be. But no provision of any kind is made for the one in three Scots who have no religious belief. At present, all they can do is ask that their children be withdrawn or excluded from religious activities, which is quite simply inadequate and unfair.

The HSS seeks parity of esteem with those who hold religious views; an equal respect for our convictions and a recognition of the legitimacy of our ethical stance. We seek it not as a concession or a favour, but as a civil and human right and we call on all who have an interest and influence in education to support our position.

The Society's ambitious programme is committed to providing

Free teaching materials for all children between 5 and 18
Free support materials for teachers and parents
Free help and advice for those seeking education free from religion
Free speakers to support teachers on request

You can download these education resources here .

The campaign has already attracted support from the office of Kathleen Marshall, Scotland's Commissioner for Children and Young People which "noted how well it fits into Article 29 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, an international standard which all cultures have signed up to and an appropriate focus for your work."

HSS President Christopher Brookmyre also lends his voice, saying "Children necessarily must invest the sincerest trust in what their teachers tell them. Thus the same institution that tells them one plus one equals two should not then be telling them that three persons add up to one God."

The response from parents has been overwhelming. Judie & Kevin Holliday wrote "We want our children to understand the Christmas and Easter stories and Ramadan, Eid, Diwali, Chanaka and Beltane. We want them to know that there are many ways to be a good person and that you don’t have to believe in a god to be good, honest, decent and trustworthy. We hope the school will not undermine these beliefs."

For more information, or to become involved in the campaign, please contact the Education Officer

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