In a disturbing development for Christian schools in South Australia, a new science teaching policy has been introduced which appears to be trying to prevent the inclusion of creationism or intelligent design in the science curriculum in non-government schools.

The change in policy by the SA Non-Government Schools Registration Board apparently took place in December last year without any genuine consultation with affected school organisations.

The policy, which appears to be far more restrictive than that imposed by other States, includes the following: “The Board requires the teaching of Science as an empirical discipline, focusing on inquiry, hypothesis, investigation, experimentation, observation and evidential analysis.

“The Board does not accept as satisfactory a science curriculum in a non‐government school which is based upon, espouses or reflects the literal interpretation of a religious text in its treatment of either creationism or intelligent design.”

To read a full copy of the policy document click here. 

Many Christian schools tend to teach topics such as intelligent design alongside the mandatory curriculum requirement to study evolution in their science classes.

This change in policy by the SA Non-Government Schools Registration Board now seems to threaten that practice, or even the examination and discussion of a Christian worldview in relation to science and the theory of evolution.

There is also concern about how State Government decisions such as this could impact the development of the national science curriculum. The process of developing a national school curriculum for all Australian schools is currently underway, with a draft curriculum for science, maths, English, and history set to be released online by the Federal Government next Monday.

ACL believes it is important for Christian schools to have the freedom to teach students from a Christian worldview without the threat of de-registration. We are following this issue closely in discussions with the various Christian Schools organisations in SA. We are aware that these organisations are examining what action should be taken on this issue and will keep you informed.

Media Contact: Glynis Quinlan on 0408 875 979.

Australian Christian Lobby
Canberra, Australia

Tel: (02) 6259 0431

Fax: (02) 6259 0462

Mob: 0448 602 878

www.acl.org.au