Church Defends Education Role

Wednesday November 6 2013

The Church of Scotland has defended the mandatory appointment of religious representatives on Scottish local authority education committees.

The abolition of such appointments is being considered in proposals put forward by John Finnie, MSP for the Highlands and Islands, aimed at 'promoting greater accountability and transparency in local government'.

A spokesman for the Church said: "The Church of Scotland has participated in the structures of educaiton authorities since it handed its schools over to the state in 1873.

"The role its representatives play is one of service and support that reflects its contribution to education since its vision of a school in every parish helped in establishing Scotland's universal education system, one of the first anywhere in the world, and profoundly shaped the Scotland we know today.

"Church of Scotland representatives on local authority education committees are hard-working and dedicated people. They are not all clergy and they bring a breadth of experience and knowledge of community and educational life. These representatives on education authorities use their position carefully to support the development of education in all its aspects.

"Their role enhances the democratic decision-making and their commitment is greatly valued by officers and councillors alike. We know from many examples across the country that the contribution made by its representatives is valued as an independent, non-partisan voice that adds value to often difficult discussions without being aligned in any way to a particular view or position.

"The Church remains committed to continuing to serve the nation in this way."

Post Tags: education

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