I've been sat here cogitating, between science week events etc. etc., and I
think I've been misunderstood....
The Vardys are talking to most of the city academies in the North, even one
which is being sponsored by the Diocese of York, which does not exactly take
a creationist or evangelical view.
I wasnt suggesting - and would never suggest - as a confirmed atheist and
someone who feels exceedingly uncomfortable with and in faith schools - that
they teach creationism. I was proposing they examine the two alternative
theories in the light of the evidence. It could be seen as a good way to
teach the scientific method.
I agree we need to (carefully and sensitively) persuade schools this is not
the done thing, and ensure that teachers stick to the curriculum, but then,
as Andy pointed out, the school receives the majority of its cash from HMG.
Surely they have a role in this?
Also, knowing many of the science teachers at the city academies in
Middlesbrough, and the one in East Cleveland, I can assure you the kind of
view expounded by the HoS at Emmanuel won't take hold. Perhaps it's just a
function of a single head of science who happens to be in a school that
receives sponsorship from Vardy. I'm sure they'll be told to...er...go away
in the traditional fashion.
To me, there is no doubt that if the school is teaching this kind of stuff,
something needs to be done. Wheels are in motion to find out what's going on
in the school's science lessons. Wheels are also in motion (following David
Steven's email) to find out what conditions are attached to any funding
which flows from the Vardy Foundation for City Academies. They have (so we
are told) made available up to six grants of £2M each to schools / academies
/ colleges across the North. They are understandably in discussions with
most of them!
More will follow as soon as we know.
It's interesting that the Vardy Foundation determines its objects at the
"absolute discretion of the trustees" (see www.charity-commission.gov.uk and
look in "registered charities"). It also has only three trustees....all
members of the Vardy family.
Andy is right to say this is cause for concern in doing neither science nor
any deity a good service. Thanks to him for bringing it up! I am in hot
pursuit of the facts.
Cheers
Colin
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