Lobby group backs Darwin for primary schools

The government has received praise from a lobby group for its decision to make it mandatory for primary school children to learn about evolution.

Following pressure from a number of high-profile humanists including author Richard Dawkins, schools minister Diana Johnson confirmed Darwin's concepts are now included in the science programme for four to 11-year-olds.

The move was backed by London-based pressure group The National Secular Society, which said schools should no longer have the option to marginalise Darwin's teachings.

Responding to suggestions the decision was made to appease secular groups, Terry Sanderson, the society's president, answered that "there's nothing politically correct about it" as evolution is backed by scientific proof.

He urged the government to not "collude" with religious organisations by continuing to sanction the teaching of creationism or intelligent design.

Written by Charlotte Michaels





Published On 10/11/2009