should politics be discussed in schools
An informed electorate is required for a democracy to thrive, and the knowledge needed doesnt suddenly come to one when they turn eighteen. For many teachers, however, this approach was problematic. In a safe bubble, students need to be seen as people who can think for themselves, rather than people who are forced to keep their views hidden. For this reason, teachers more often than not choose to keep their political opinions to themselves. However, there is a risk that doing so could sometimes amount to promoting a partisan political view or compromise the balanced presentation of opposing views. Vianca Malave, Reporter February 25, 2021. Partisan political views must not be promoted to pupils, including by encouraging pupils to support campaign groups advocating such views. Teachers are not required to teach about every possible resolution to the crisis that has ever been proposed or considered. News stories, speeches, letters and notices, Reports, analysis and official statistics, Data, Freedom of Information releases and corporate reports. In relevant case law - Dimmock v Secretary of State for Education and Skills [2007] - the court considered that the best synonym for the term partisan is one-sided and suggested that political views are those expressed with a political purpose, such as to further the interests of a particular partisan group, change the law or change government policy. Education Politics should be involved when providing an education on the subject, but not to pressure or persuade one to have the same political views. The strict curriculum and rigid testing schedule provides little room for teachers to allocate time to discussion. Flat out rejecting to speak around these issues can hinder students knowledge and understanding of a subject. Especially with increasing coverage in the media. Teachers can also be subject to a prohibition order if their actions or behaviours undermine fundamental British values. If pupils are unlikely to be able to understand the contested nature of such views, for example, if they are too young or no additional teaching is possible, external agencies should not express them to pupils. If the general political issue of quotas is deemed relevant to the session, the school should take steps to ensure partisan political views are not promoted to pupils, and that they receive a balanced account of this issue. However, ultimately school leaders and teachers will need to use reasonable judgement to determine what is and is not a political issue. Pavlick worries that if children do not receive formal education about civics and politics, they might become apathetic voters as adults, or worse, they might fail to participate in the. Where parents and carers remain dissatisfied, they can raise a formal complaint, in line with the schools complaints procedure. Instead, there is continued debate, where different legitimate views are expressed. This brings us to the third reason why homework should be banned. Teachers strikes. This can involve challenging or asking for evidence of claims made by external agencies about their work and how this interacts with schools legal duties on political impartiality. The current Social Studies Curriculum Specialist, Ms. Colleen Bernard, agrees with this statement. But should all teachers engage with politics in the classroom? If there were to happen across the nation, politics would surely need to become a more integral part of the learning environment. Teaching about political issues, the different views people have, and the ways pupils can engage in our democratic society is an essential part of a broad and balanced curriculum. Homework can be a source of anxiety. This can be an effective way of engaging pupils and building their understanding of democracy. This is an issue that political candidates in an upcoming local election have campaigned on, advocating different approaches and views. Schools can still teach about the topics these organisations would cover and the partisan political views they hold. These debates, however, should only voice the sociopolitical opinions of students and not teachers. Learning to debate will help to develop their ability to think critically, as well as their public speaking and general speaking skills. On this topic, the debate could, for example, be centred around what we could do to help to solve the problem. Not all charities and civil society organisations will hold partisan political views. Muhammad Ali, whose refusal to serve in the Army during the war in Vietnam once inspired government prosecution, is remembered fondly as someone whose grievances were clear, detailed, and. We can tolerate one another in ways where we dont feel judged. Every viewpoint should be allowed the space to be aired even those that are diametrically opposed to a teachers. This could be done either by asking the agency to avoid covering their partisan political views in the session or by the school taking steps to ensure pupils are aware of the contested nature of these views and taught about opposing views. Schools may wish to develop criteria or a policy to support these judgements and ensure they are consistent. Previously, AP Government was only offered to sophomores and upperclassmen for that reason, but beginning next fall, incoming freshmen will be able to take this class instead of merit or honors government. They should avoid implying that a single view on the issue is correct and should be supported. Schools should consider their requirements on political impartiality in public displays, such as banners and posters in public view and other communications. One step which could be taken is to create and implement a clear school policy that sets out how visiting speakers are chosen and how political balance is to be achieved, over a period of time. Such topics should only be considered as political issues - and in scope of legal duties on balance - where relevant to current political issues and debate. They may also be held by campaign groups, lobbyists and charitable organisations. Over the last few years, there has been much discussion about political impartiality in schools, often in the context of specific political issues and movements. For more recent historical events including those which are particularly contentious and disputed, political issues may be presented to pupils. February 29, 2020. Teaching about political issues might cover the factual basis and validity of claims made. This could include teaching younger pupils about more general factual content, whilst older pupils could be presented with a more comprehensive overview, including contested partisan political views and claims with both being taught in a balanced manner. Take for example, protests for racial injustice and our global climate crisis. Teachers shouldn't promote their own political agenda It's important to note that sections 406 and 407 of the 1996 Education Act prohibit the promotion of partisan political views in schools. Especially if they provide no evidence to back up their opinion. The classroom has not become immune to this tumult of political activity and discourse, instead one could say it has become one of many places that has felt the impact most heavily. This guidance should support those working with and in schools to understand the relevant legal duties. School staff are free to engage in political activity, provided this is outside the school in their own time and at their own expense. And students have an increasing pool of knowledge already built through news, social media and debate at home. Meeting the legal duties on. Here are three reasons why we think politics should be encouraged to be taught in schools. This includes many topics relating to empire and imperialism, on which there are differing partisan political views, and which should be taught in a balanced manner. Politics doesnt have to be Donald Trump, Brexit or immigration policy. Following their efforts during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, pupils and staff at a school may wish to display a banner showing their appreciation to NHS staff. This includes independent schools. When considering working with external agencies, either to support the delivery of the curriculum or extra-curricular, schools should thoroughly assess external agencies before agreeing to any work with them. Where teaching focuses on a single view on a political issue for an extended period of time - for example, where a political ideology is a core part of the curriculum - teachers should simply avoid promoting this view, present it without bias and ensure pupils understand its contested nature. Regardless of how strongly a teacher feels about a political issue, they cannot actively promote their views in the classroom. What will 2022 bring? It is likely that critical analysis, including elements of other political ideologies, will be needed to explain and illustrate the views being focused on. This is the case even if the material itself is not extreme, as the use of it could imply endorsement or support of the organisation. To develop a thoughtful political conscious, students must garner a well-rounded base of knowledge, of which they may refer to as needed in discussion. They can and should be clear with pupils on the dangers of present-day sexist views and practices, including the facts and laws about discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. However, it may be advisable to focus on teaching about what these figures are most renowned for and factual information about them if teachers think pupils may not be able to understand the contested nature of more complex analyses of their lives, beliefs and actions. Its important to note that sections 406 and 407 of the 1996 Education Act prohibit the promotion of partisan political views in schools. That is part of life. In addition, low energy transportation options will be discussed, including bicycling and public transportation. The general premise of this ruling has subsequently been followed by numerous school districts. They should ensure pupils are at least aware of opposing views on political issues that are brought to their attention. Although some people are fine with having friends of opposite views on politics, this isnt the case for everyone as some people have lost friends because of what party they are affiliated with. Challenging intolerant, racist or discriminatory views where these are shared at school should be seen as part of schools wider anti-bullying and safeguarding duties. When analyzing a social studies classroom, most would agree that the prime focus is on the relationship between human societies and the relationships of the humans within those societies. Across the UK, campaigners are calling for the voting age to be reduced to 16. We have heard it said many timesso one may think that it is true and is good behavior. Before using any resources in teaching, teachers should review these thoroughly. However, they are often servants of a politics contrary to a Christian understanding of God's reign. Secretary of State for Education. 'I believe that politics should be a part of the school curriculum because it is a pinnacle subject of everyday life and should be a necessity to be taught in depth how politics works and how politician's parties function. When teaching about political events from previous historical periods, such as the renaissance and reformation, legal duties on political impartiality are unlikely to be relevant. take such steps as are reasonably practicable to secure that, where political issues are brought to the attention of pupils, they are offered a balanced presentation of opposing views. Uncategorized. Some of these issues might define their future, proving to be the building blocks of a passion which goes on to shape their longer-term interests and career. They should also be mindful of their responsibility to promote respect and tolerance, including actively promoting fundamental British values such as democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance for those of different faiths and beliefs. When a teacher remains neutral and enables authentic debate to develop, our students can leave school with all the tools they need to healthily engage with politics now, and in the future. In some circumstances, it may be appropriate for external agencies to express partisan political views to pupils. We have learned how to be respectful when others speak their minds about a certain topic. To help us improve GOV.UK, wed like to know more about your visit today. Some educators believe that without the foundational knowledge of basic historical events, a student cannot adequately understand the issues discussed in a government class. For independent schools, the legal duties are set out in Part 2 of the Schedule to the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. Some of the youngest politicians from the 3 largest parties are coming together to discuss why they got involved in politics, what drove them to persue a career in it and how they think we, as a society, can get more young people involved in political discussion. They should be clear about the facts including laws in place to protect groups targeted by such views, as well as risks and harms of such views. Donald Trump. . Some people feel that these topics shouldnt be talked about in the school environment, while others feel we need to. This guidance does not include any new statutory requirements and is based on legal duties on political impartiality that have been in place for many years, and which we know most school leaders, teachers and staff already consider in their work. Schools are responsible for ensuring that speakers, tools, and resources do not undermine the fundamental British values of: Schools should not under any circumstances work with, or use materials produced by, external agencies that take extreme political positions on these matters. Sorry, there are no polls available at the moment. This might be by: Schools should consider how pupil-led activity feeds into a wider sense of political balance across the school. Where external agencies have failed to meet the standards a school expects, for instance by failing to stick to an agreed plan or attempting to engage pupils in political activity, schools should share this information with their local authority, academy trust and any wider school network. Although the 2016 presidential election has come to a close, many of those who witnessed the bedlam still taste the air of contention and discord among themselves. Although we cannot vote at such a young age it would still be a crucial piece of knowledge to have after your . As part of celebrations marking the anniversary of womens suffrage in the UK, a secondary school asks a womens group to host a session with pupils to teach them about the history of the British feminist movement. This would not undermine a balanced presentation of opposing views provided that, when doing this, teachers give a factual account, supporting pupils to build their understanding and make their own judgement. Pupils arrive at Clyde Primary School in Glasgow on February 22 (Image: AFP via Getty Images) Delaying the age children start school till seven will help give youngsters a . Some parents may also become concerned about the impartiality of teaching where such activity is undertaken by school leaders, teachers, and other staff. This should be done in line with this guidance and requirements on impartiality. In some cases, it may be appropriate to consider how: Given the changing nature of political issues and how they are taught, schools may wish to consider reviewing their approach to political impartiality even where issues have not already emerged. We do not consider principles or views in line with these tenets to be covered by statutory requirements on political impartiality. Teachers and staff should support this and can help pupils to act and conduct non-political activities. forbid the promotion of partisan political views. For other schools, the guidance should help them put in place the necessary processes to ensure adherence going forward. Schools should be mindful that some external agencies may hold more contentious and less appropriate partisan political views than may be initially apparent. School leaders, staff and teachers will need to interpret the terminology in schools legal duties on political impartiality using their reasonable judgement. Where political issues are covered with younger pupils, it may be advisable to consider how they might be taught differently compared to older age groups. We know its happening. We are clear that this guidance does not seek to limit the range of political issues and viewpoints schools can and do teach about. Schools should be careful to ensure that those that do are not promoting these views to the pupils they are working with or trying to engage them in political activity. . From the classroom to the polling booth, all the way to The House of Commons. The school learns that the speaker has publicly advocated partisan political views on issues related to race and social policy reform, which go further than the aims of the assembly. Whilst legal duties on political impartiality do not extend to schools interactions with parents, schools may wish to consider the impact that promoting partisan views to parents, either by public displays or in other communications, may have. Politics deals with a lot of controversial subjects (as do compulsory subjects like Science) so the Education Authority may fear that school students are too young. This may require additional teaching, ideally in advance of engagement with the external agency. Children are the future This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/political-impartiality-in-schools/political-impartiality-in-schools. More relationships have been abandoned in the last several years because of politics. In Scotland, its already happened. For a reasonable political debate, evidence is key. Although classroom debates can get heated, teachers should moderate while maintaining a neutral stance. Why Politics Should Be Taught at School. However, there are limits to the discussions. She is in girls tennis and does both kickboxing and softball outside of school. Sruthi Ramesh is a senior in high school, and it feels like shes been here forever and not long enough at the same time. Legal duties on political impartiality do not prevent initiatives which focus on addressing live and relevant issues like this within the school community. Some concepts and views are shared principles that underpin our society and should be reinforced by schools. Welcome back! They can then judge whether, and how, they might be covered appropriately with pupils. The one place where a student may not be encircled by homogeneous opinions is school. Despite this, talking about politics in the classroom has always been controversial. As an institution of learning that promotes free thought, school serves as the perfect place for this learning to begin. Pupils engagement and interest in political issues should be encouraged. Should Politics be on Scratch? This may involve further teaching or some form of clarification. Shes the Editor-In-Chief St. Charles Welcomes its First Cat Cafe on Main Street, Twisted Sugar: Local Sweets Shop Has Grand Opening, 2022-23 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Rankings. School resources, including school-branded social media, should not be used for partisan political purposes. If you wish to submit a piece for publication or care to comment on published articles please contact any member of the Editorial Board for more information. Discussing war in the classroom. An assembly is organised to help pupils understand the importance of taking steps to prevent and eliminate racism in the school and wider society. Potentially, a single step out of line could lead to a disciplinary, parental anger, and even social media outrage. Teachers and other staff have a responsibility to ensure that they act appropriately particularly in the political views they express. They are the future of tommorrow of course they should for the people who vote no cause kids shouldnt be forced to learn it All the No points: Young people need a better understanding of Politics This part of the topic should be taught in a balanced manner, with teachers not promoting any of the partisan political views covered to pupils. However, they must not advocate pupils join these protests or promote partisan political views advocated by the protest movement, or its opponents. As citizens of America, they have the right to free speech just like every other person in the country. Politics should be talked about in school as long as its not degrading. "I think teachers should be allowed to express their political beliefs, if they state it as . While talking about politics (especially this year), it can create serious tension within people, usually ending up with two or more people fighting with each other. The school may want to discuss this with the speaker, to ensure that these views are not presented in a way that would constitute the promotion of partisan political issues. Discussion in history around these . See the section on sensitive political issues for more information. Political issues are likely to be raised outside of planned teaching and activities, mainly when pupils raise these themselves or ask and comment about live political issues. Teachers are not required to provide a balanced presentation of opposing views on these issues, although they may wish to teach about different historic and current perspectives as part of a broad and balanced curriculum. Many are confused. This saying is rooted in avoidance and fear. The content and materials used in any engagement with pupils should be: Schools should not hesitate to explicitly request that external agencies avoid covering certain partisan political views, where they are not deemed relevant or appropriate. It is great to be able to express how you feel and what you value especially as a teenager. The report states that participants "highlighted the persistent limitations and barriers they are facing, such as a sense of under-representation a lack of opportunities, and the feeling that the current political system is not designed to encourage and facilitate young women's involvement". A persons interest in politics can manifest at any time during the course of their life. Liberty's Charlotte's Web Production Will Be Held on Nov. 17-19 at 7 p.m. Sruthi Ramesh, Editor-In-Chief of LHStoday, Photo Editor of The Ledger, Director of The Eagles Eye Broadcast, & Producer of The Wingspan Live Stream. This does not mean that schools cannot teach younger pupils about political issues. These are views which go beyond the basic shared principle that racism is unacceptable, which is a view schools should reinforce. sections 406 and 407 of the 1996 Education Act. An anonymous opinion was posted that stated, "It shouldn't be a requirement for having religion in school. Servants of the church who claim that they are not political are indeed political. Beth Blok is the Viking Vision Advisor. Similarly, Christians should stand against evil, no matter who says it. Teachers should feel free to discuss political issues. Educators should be the leaders in encouraging students to express their thoughts in school. During periods of heightened political activity and sensitivity, including around elections or in the aftermath of significant political events, staff should be mindful to avoid activity within the school that could be construed as promoting a particular partisan view. To elaborate, many people of all religions agree that it should be up to the students parents what is taught to their children at school, and what is not. In 2014, the Liberal Democrat politician, David Laws, even suggested that . Regardless of how strongly a teacher feels about a political issue, they cannot actively promote their views in the classroom. Most academies will also have a specific clause in their funding agreement which requires adherence to the same provisions. Further guidance is available on protecting children from radicalisation. #1 Aug. 9, 2020 20:41:59. random11211 . Many high schoolers, unfortunately, are just not aware of the political issues at hand and dont possess an adequately deep understanding of the topics that are being discussed in the headlines today. Now is not the time to present your own views and bias, rather it's to teach your students to be educated voters. For maintained schools, there is a direct prohibition on the pursuit of partisan political activity by junior pupils (meaning those under the age of 12) within the school and in any activities outside school involving staff members or anyone acting on behalf of the school. should politics be discussed in schools. Whilst 50 years ago students might have had no interest in talking about politics, today there is a thirst for knowledge, discussion and debate. It is good teaching to involve ourselves and our grade 5-12 classrooms in being aware, caring and making a difference. Politics Should Be Discussed At The Dinner Table . When teaching students to pass a test, rather than to expand the depth of their knowledge about the world, political discussion cannot thrive. They should however avoid presenting only various versions of arguments in favour of (or various arguments against) military intervention, instead of exploring the more significant fundamental difference in opinion on the issue. This group also has a live petition on their website calling for companies to implement a mandatory gender balance quota for their executive boards. social studies teacher Mrs. Terry Gibbons expressed her own observations regarding political interest, stating that students begin to develop such interests right away in ninth grade and that some students already have strong political opinions that may either be their own opinions or based on outside environments. This must be done in a balanced manner and not involve promoting partisan political views on the issue. But whatever an individual teacher's views might be, it is important to remember that sections 406 and 407 of the 1996 Education Act prohibit the promotion of partisan political views in schools. This is so they know what was discussed and can follow up with their pupils. About the Contributors Vianca Malave, Reporter Particular care should be taken to ensure that the external agencies used, as well as any materials and communication with pupils, are appropriate and in line with schools legal duties on political impartiality. Learn about community . Teachers and staff may at times need to explain to pupils why this is important, particularly in a democratic state. Schools and other specified authorities are also subject to the Prevent duty under Section 26 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. Schools should be conscious of the fact that in some instances staff behaviour outside school may become visible to pupils, particularly when social media is used. There is no reason that schools cannot have public displays and communications, to mark significant awareness-raising or community events or for other reasons, provided they do not promote partisan political views. it will help the students look at the world through different perspectives. Instead, it means that in presenting views on political issues, teachers and staff should take a fair and dispassionate approach - in accordance with the judgement of the court in the case law mentioned earlier. This may be particularly helpful for new teachers and staff, as well as those in (or working towards) leadership positions. They are illustrative and not intended to be prescriptive guidance on which political issues schools should teach or specify set actions all schools must take. From the ongoing EU debate, Donald Trumps presidency, even teachers pensions, people are increasingly aligning themselves fundamentally against an opposing view. It will always rely on teachers and staff using their judgement and expertise effectively. As Mrs. Briggs puts it, Its our job to expose them [students] to the facts of how the government works and to apply to whats happening in the real world so they can form own opinions about those things. However, the debate shouldnt be whether climate change exists. Importantly, I hope this guidance helps all parties to understand how schools should go about meeting their legal duties, allowing issues to be resolved through constructive dialogue and agreement rather than unnecessary escalation. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. The times we live in are so horrible, the news so unbearable, that it seems strange that so . Rt Hon Nadhim Zahawi MP This is appropriate when done for illustrative purposes and when pupils understand the nature of these materials, and that they promote partisan political views. For instance, it would not be advisable to have a pupil-led society under the banner of a political party, as there would be a high risk of school resources being used for partisan political activity. This guidance provides scenarios chosen in part to help build an understanding of what constitutes a political issue. Teachers can intervene during a session, and in extreme cases stop a speaker. State laws banning critical race theory in schools are censoring educators and the curriculum. While talking about politics in school could cause a lot of commotion and some problems, it should be a fine topic to discuss if you're mature enough. Some topics may not directly require the presentation of a political issue, but teaching may lead to presenting political issues that relate indirectly to the curriculum content. Voice your opinion and learn more about each side of the debate. It is important for our students to understand how critical, democratic political debates work. Schools should be aware of this information in advance of any engagement involving pupils. I know all of you would reject teaching African Aninism in a science class, so why would you want to teach Intelligent Design? Check benefits and financial support you can get, Limits on energy prices: Energy Price Guarantee, Role of local authorities, school proprietors, academy trusts and headteachers, nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3, Schedule to the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, barring unsuitable individuals from managing independent schools, pre-election guidance for schools and multi-academy trusts, academy trusts (including senior managers and academy trustees), headteachers and executive leaders (for maintained schools and academies), to ensure political impartiality as part of a schools existing processes, teachers and staff can best be supported in this area through training or other means, must prohibit the promotion of partisan political views, should take steps to ensure the balanced presentation of opposing views on political issues when they are brought to the attention of pupils, Equality Act 2010 (including the Public Sector Equality Duty for state-funded schools), mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, meaningful political balance across the whole curriculum and during pupils time at school can be achieved, to ensure pupils are taught about a diverse range of views and ideas, reviewed and agreed in advance of any session, aligned to the developmental stage of pupils, promoting the adoption of non-democratic political systems rather than those based on democracy, for any purpose, a publicly stated desire to abolish democracy, to end free and fair elections, or violently overthrow capitalism, opposition to the right of freedom of speech, freedom of association, freedom of assembly or freedom of religion and conscience, engaging in or encouraging active or persistent harassment or intimidation of individuals in support of their cause, the use or endorsement of racist language or communications, including antisemitic, promoting divisive narratives that seek to justify serious criminal activity, including violent action against people, criminal damage to property, hate crime or terrorism, selecting and presenting information, in a biased or unbalanced manner, to make unsubstantiated accusations against state institutions to justify serious criminal activity, including violent action against people, criminal damage to property, hate crime or terrorism, the encouragement or endorsement of serious criminal activity, including where organisations fail to condemn criminal actions that have been committed in their name or in support of their cause, including violent action against people, criminal damage to property, hate crime or terrorism, explaining the different partisan political views campaigning groups advocate, telling pupils where they can find out more about this, providing a balanced account of political issues related to the environment, is not targeted at specific groups of pupils or staff, does not create an atmosphere of intimidation or fear for other pupils and staff, avoids pupils feeling that they would be stigmatised for holding or sharing alternative views, is conducted in line with the schools behaviour policy, avoiding disruption for other pupils and staff, school trusts (including senior managers and academy trustees), headteachers, in the case of maintained schools and academies. That some kooky far-right or far-left teacher will pollute their innocent child's brain with political nonsense instead of teaching them the basics of literature, math and history. Not everyone sees eye to eye on things. publicado por; Categoras ralph lauren polo china; Fecha noviembre 1, 2021; Comentarios . Following an international diplomatic incident, protests across the country have been organised and the issue has been raised in the classroom. But biases that favour one side of the aisle that aren't based on facts or evidence should evidently not be allowed. The term balanced presentation of opposing views, does not mean that pupils must be taught about an opposite view to every view which is covered, or that different views are always given equal time in teaching or cannot be critically assessed. Most schools will have no difficulty meeting their legal duties on political impartiality and will be confident in the way risks to political impartiality are managed. It is an important way in which schools support pupils to become active citizens who can form their own views, whilst having an understanding and respect for legitimate differences of opinion. Following the recent election, there has been an increase in interest in studying politics in education. This is unlikely to breach legal duties on political impartiality, particularly where pupils are being actively taught, in a balanced manner, about these political issues. Should we change our attitude towards these discussions, or stick to the way it has always been? When teaching about the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the UK, including the Sexual Offences Act 1967, it may be important to teach about the prejudicial views held by those that opposed the change. We are talking about the beginning of life, not of spirit. Students should be taught how to rule out any remaining biases, as well as on how to open their eyes up to any differing ideas. Where there are concerns about political impartiality at a school, we recommend these are raised in this manner as most issues will be able to be resolved without using formal complaints procedures. Teachers may also wish to present opposing views to help pupils in the classroom receive a balanced account of the issue. The Viking Vision maintains an open forum and accepts editorials, articles, as well as letters to the editor, which will be released frequently throughout the year. It is important that all schools treat concerns about impartiality from parents, carers, or others seriously. This advice is not intended to limit the effective teaching of historical or current controversial issues and extreme views. In line with the guidance on sensitive political issues, a distinction should be drawn between basic shared principles, such as tolerance and opposition to discrimination and prejudice, and contested partisan political views. It was recently found that more 18-year-olds in the UK have a Facebook account than are registered to vote. https://lhstoday.org/25361/opinion/should-politics-be-discussed-in-school/#comment-485. School leaders and employers will need to judge whether it is necessary or helpful to have a school wide policy on teachers expressing personal opinions on political issues in the classroom, or whether this is best left to teachers own judgement on a case-by-case basis. Politics should be discussed in schools, because it's a part of our past history as a country, as well as what will eventually be a part of our history. For balance, classroom discussions on a political issue should always remain neutral. Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned. Education, at its core, is inherently political, says Dunn. Most can and will be taught in a balanced manner for pupils of all ages. What is prohibited in the legal duties is promoting partisan political views to pupils. There is a very fine line between sharing opinion and forcing children to think in a certain way. All the Yes points: Young people need a better understanding of Politics An informed electorate is the key to a strong democracy. This includes those where there is a factual consensus which pupils should be aware of. Teachers and staff can, however, explain to pupils how they can get more actively involved outside of school. The only reason where politics should be a focus is in a class where it is involved, such as history or political science. 2020 by VikingVision. Schools should be confident that working with an external agency will not compromise the prohibition on promoting partisan political views to pupils. These views may be part of the curriculum in many subjects, such as advanced levels of study in history and politics and it may be appropriate and helpful to teach about them in order to build pupils resilience to radicalisation. Schools should ensure that any pupil-led activity is conducted sensitively, this means that it: When political issues are brought to the attention of pupils, including by the activity and political expression of other pupils, and schools are aware of this, they should offer pupils a balanced account of opposing views. Politics This is Why Politics Should Stay Out of the Classroom It has divided our country. Understanding that our voices matter and speaking up about our passions can help teach the minds of the people we disagree with. "Education itself is political who chooses the textbooks, who funds schools, how schools are funded," said Alyssa Dunn, an education professor at Michigan State University. Politics are a debatable topic when discussed with our family, co-workers, and friends. Should teachers talk about politics in the classroom? But for the sake of our nation and for the sake of peace on our planet, the adage must be FALSE. Schools can work with external agencies that hold partisan political views or are engaged in political activity, provided they do not undermine fundamental British values or take extreme political positions. Using just our voices can shape a louder and more enlightened world. A Christian's primary goal in life should be to love God and love others. Some political issues will be more sensitive than others. Parents, and even teachers, may feel concerned about their children and their students talking politics in school because of the bias and . Schools will have processes for engaging informally with parents and carers and the wider school community. They are more appropriate to work in schools and conducive to a school ethos that promotes tolerance and respect. These classes can quickly become situated around the professor's extensive knowledge of such politics they are, after all, the ones giving us the final grade. Schools should provide a safe space in which children, young people and staff can understand and discuss sensitive topics, including terrorism and the extremist ideas that are part of terrorist ideology. A distinction should be drawn between the shared principle that discrimination and prejudice are wrong, and partisan political views that go beyond this or advocate political reform. You may cancel at any time. Legal requirements on political impartiality in schools fall specifically on: This does not mean that other teachers and staff should not be aware of and consider these statutory requirements. On the other hand, government teacher Mr. Nate Smarick responded, Some develop an interest in middle school. External agencies may market resources and support to schools as part of popular awareness-raising events, for example, annual history months or historical anniversaries. Most are generally aware of the broad interpretations of various social conflicts and cases, but do not possess an adequate platform to express their own thoughts and opinions. High school students should be intelligent enough not to accept their teacher's opinion as truth on politics. Ultimately, schools remain responsible for what is said to their pupils. Politics shouldn't be discussed in schools because teachers may bias their students. It is more important that teaching about contested views on political issues remains fair and dispassionate and pupils are presented a range of views over time, to ensure balance. They are illustrative and not intended to be prescriptive guidance on which political issues schools should teach or specify set actions all schools must take. They mean people should address politics more directly in their art. For a student to become educated in democracy and critical thinking, they need to learn that an opinion is just that an opinion. Surely this means we all should have a basic understanding? 1. This includes through the distribution of materials or the advertisement of events and campaigns. Schools do not need to present misinformation, such as unsubstantiated claims that anthropogenic climate change is not occurring, to provide balance here. For example, we know that climate change is scientifically proven. The Line magazine is published bi-annually, if the current issues is out-of-stock, you will receive the next issue upon publication. I hope this guidance can offer assurance to most schools that their legal duties in this area are being met without issue. Many parents feel political topics should not be discussed in the classroom. It is a student by student basis, even some seniors dont get interested.. Schools wont always need to cover a number of different views when teaching about political issues and shouldnt feel obliged to do so when this is impractical. To meet the legal duties on political impartiality, teachers should simply ensure they are not presenting these ideologies as fact or promoting the partisan political views being covered. While talking about politics in school could cause a lot of commotion and some problems, it should be a fine topic to discuss if youre mature enough. Artists should make work that speaks out against society's ills, argues Bob and Roberta Smith RA. This could later shape a new wave of voters and politicians who are exposed to opinions outside their family circles. Teachers are not required to present these discriminatory beliefs uncritically or as acceptable in our society today. I think Politics should be discussed in school. From footballers to politicians, the decision has been roundly criticised; EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called it "a . Politics is an essential part of our lives. If you would like to place an ad in the Viking Vision, ad prices are available upon request. See the section on balance in teaching for more information. Brexit. Stand for truth and against evil (on both sides). In presenting a balanced account of opposing views, schools are not required to teach about unsubstantiated theories and conspiracies. Teachers should be focused on teaching their students the curriculum and not on their own political beliefs. If this happens it is important that concerns from parents, carers and others are treated seriously and handled with sensitivity. The following descriptions of some key terms from the legislation may be helpful in supporting this. There are some concepts and views that can be considered as shared principles that underpin our society and not political issues in this context. Intelligent Design: Should it be discussed in schools? Government and teaching unions frequently come to blows over the national curriculum. Often simple steps can be taken to address concerns. Additionally, the home environment has a massive influence on a students viewpoints. It is also important to remember that nothing in this guidance limits schools freedom to teach about sensitive, challenging, and controversial political issues, as they consider appropriate and necessary. Taking photos? This can be the case even when the main political parties and other partisan groups agree on a view, but there is not a wider consensus in public opinion. Especially with increasingly insular political networks on social media. It is true that they are too young to make decisions but there is no harm in exchanging opinions. Some teachers flat out refuse to engage. Parents, and even teachers, may feel concerned about their children and their students talking politics in school because of the bias and incivility that comes with it. "The reality is that almost everything that goes on is, in fact . This includes legal requirements under the: Schools are also required to actively promote the fundamental British values of: Schools designated with a religious character are free to teach according to the tenets of their faith. Instead give a balanced factual account of the topic, in line with the legal duties on political impartiality. We get it. Yes. As an institution of learning that promotes free thought, school serves as the perfect place for this learning to begin. Others say we should talk about this. Were more politically aware than ever. More information specifically relating to elections can be found in the pre-election guidance for schools and multi-academy trusts. Existing statutory requirements on political impartiality cover all schools, regardless of type or funding arrangement. Sensitive social and political topics should be discussed . This will allow any necessary steps to be taken to ensure this engagement does not risk breaching schools legal duties on political impartiality. The Viking Vision maintains the right to cut all submissions in accordance to length as well as content. Schools can teach about partisan political views effectively, without breaching their legal duties on political impartiality. Schools should continue to take steps to tackle racist and discriminatory attitudes or incidents - and condemn racism within the school and wider society. There is no blanket prohibition on teachers and staff expressing their own views on political issues that are being taught to pupils. In this context, the term reasonably practicable means that steps taken to ensure balance should be reasonable and proportionate. In these instances, it is important for schools to use their reasonable judgement as to whether teaching would be age-appropriate. They should also be clear that they have no place in our society. Teachers should not present dangerous and discriminatory views unchallenged, and this is not a necessary part of a balanced presentation of opposing views. In June 2021, (Pride Month, of all months) the Hungarian parliament passed a controversial new law banning LGBTI education for children. I only knew things based on what people would talk about at school or from my parents mentioning it to me. If we were to maintain this pattern, schools wouldn't have to set high expectations for their students. But at the same time, I would love to have learnt politics at school . Contrary to critical belief, exposing students to political thought in school does in no means imply that students are being force fed opinions and thoughts that are not their own. Both pupils and teachers can freely attend legal protests outside school. Should politics be taught in schools? It is not necessary for local authorities, school proprietors, academy trusts or headteachers to supervise or review every instance of teaching about political issues. Even though most teachers understand that teacher neutrality is vital for an authentic, lively political debate in the classroom, what often happens is that a student will ask for your personal opinion. Pros Cons It is important for students to have a comprehensive understanding of the world to properly navigate it as adults. For pupils further along in their education, it is increasingly likely that it will be appropriate and necessary to explore complex issues due to their advanced level of study, and in some cases, the specific course of study for qualifications. North Point Begins To Hire Staff For Inaugural Year, Polar Plunge Raises Money for the Special Olympics. Teachers and staff can help support pupils understanding of political issues discussed and the different views held, by adhering to similar principles as outlined for teaching about these issues. For maintained schools, these legal duties are set out in Section 406 and Section 407 of the Education Act 1996. The same principles also apply to historical examples of discrimination and persecution, which are relevant to current political issues. Schools should be conscious of resources from external agencies that might initially appear appropriate but may contain bias and undermine a balanced account of the political issues being taught. On both of these topics, encouraging students to create and engage in opposing campaigns, and then debating them with each other can give them a solid grounding for how democratic debates work. Where schools wish to teach about specific campaigning organisations, such as some of those associated with the Black Lives Matter movement, they should be aware that this may cover partisan political views. I understand that it can be A students stance can be questioned too. To support teaching about global trade, a school invites an external agency to present the economic challenges faced by some countries in the Global South. Where staff do share their personal political views, they should ensure that this is not presented as fact and note that there are opposing views which pupils may wish to consider. When teaching about sensitive political issues relating to discrimination, teachers should still be mindful to avoid promoting partisan political views or presenting contested theories as fact. Blog. We have published guidance on barring unsuitable individuals from managing independent schools. We should be able to admit that the opposing side gets something right. Understanding where views and opinions go further than this and where the legal duties on political impartiality may be relevant, is an important part of doing this effectively. This will allow other schools to be alert to these risks and consider carefully whether they wish to work with the agency in question. Schools should focus on the needs of their pupils when deciding how to teach about controversial subjects. If we continue treating these sorts of conversations as an illicit subject, how will it affect the way we act towards future issues? Dont worry we wont send you spam or share your email address with anyone. Yet experts say that it's impossible to remove politics from the classroom because teaching itself is a political act. This includes avoiding endorsing any partisan political views put forward. Well send you a link to a feedback form. Yes, school is meant to be a community for learning, but we need to make it a safe space for all. These requirements also apply to academies. Politics can be discussed in class as long as it doesnt degrade other people. Different groups, including political parties and campaign groups, may have partisan political views on the best way to address climate change. Vianca Malave is a sophomore this year. It is our human right to speak up on whatever we feel needs to be said, no matter the circumstances. It is inevitable that students become exposed to the contentious issues that define society today with the advancement of online journalism and social media. Politics is a major part of the lives of our students. Examples of extreme political positions include, but are not limited to: Working with such organisations is not compatible with schools requirements to actively promote fundamental British values, and such organisations pose a high risk of undermining these values. And with social media, we engage with politics more regularly than ever. Students are political. Given their developmental stage, this would typically be seen as a school promoting partisan political views, in breach of legal duties which apply to all schools. Its okay to have opinions, but we must make sure that they reflect our morals. Schools might invite local political figures, including MPs, councillors, or former pupils involved in politics, to talk to pupils. Though teachers shouldnt express their own politics in the classroom (especially considering the latest DoE guidelines), political debate shouldnt be written off. Schools need to prepare students for political engagement in a nonpartisan way, even though the "real world" of politics is increasingly partisan and polarized. The school should be clear that it would not be acceptable for the group to have pupils sign this petition during the session. Whether we watch the evening news, are involved in political activism, or write to our council to collect our recycling bins more regularly, politics underpins our existence. This support can help pupils to form their own reasoned views on the issue, based on the available evidence. In this scenario, opposing views should be explicitly expressed as not being your own. If these views are likely to be mentioned, the school should consider steps to ensure that pupils are aware of their contested nature and receive a balanced account of related political issues. Shreeya Agarwal & Elissa Dallimore, WriterMay 16, 2017. True or False? It would not be appropriate for a teacher to suggest that pupils join a certain campaigning group or engage in specific political activity, for example, an upcoming protest. Being the inspiring teacher that you are, school students respect your standing. When teaching about an ongoing humanitarian crisis and whether the UK should intervene militarily, teachers may just outline broad arguments in favour and against this option. In the case of Weingarten v. Board of Education the ruling asserted, and courts upheld, the employees free speech concerning politics was limited in schools to educator designated areas. However, where teaching covers the potential solutions for tackling climate change, this may constitute a political issue. Generally, teachers interpret this guideline to abstain from influencing a students views beyond the role of a mediator or a devils advocate. This means that where there is the widespread political activity by pupils, it may be appropriate for schools to proactively address and teach about the issues being raised. Decisions about how to teach about a political issue in line with legal duties on political impartiality should consider the age, developmental stage, and existing knowledge of pupils. And the Race to the Top program of the Obama administration has significantly affected spending priorities, teaching and learning in public schools. Teachers and staff should interpret schools legal duties relating to balance, using their reasonable judgement. Schools should be aware that partisan political views are not limited to just political parties. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected]. 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