I am petitioning the UK government to repeal the requirement to carry out Christian worship in schools, ensuring that no school should carry out worship that does not reflect the educational needs of the whole school.

Considering less than 50% of British Citizens identify as Christian, this practice of mandatory Christian worship is biased, outdated and most importantly not inclusive.

Religious education in schools is important, but this should be taught during RE lessons and not during assemblies.

 I have recently gone to view a Christian secondary school where the crucifix symbol was above most doors, despite the school's website stating it is "open to all faiths and none". I really felt for the children and teachers who work in that school who do not worship the Christian faith, they must feel like they don't truly belong in what is supposed to be a safe space. I am aware the argument could be made that parents or guardians could choose to send their children to a different school, but I strongly believe that religion should not cause financial issues such as having to drive further, pay more for childcare and most importantly; religion should not separate bonds and friendships formed in primary schools.

My children have informed me teachers are instructing them to put their hands together in prayer and audibly pray to the Christian God, despite this school not being listed as having a religious denomination on the local councils website or by Ofsted. I have been informed the practice of forced Christian prayer in schools is dictated by UK law.

The Education Act 1944 requires that schools provide a daily act of collective worship, which should be broadly Christian in nature. This activity isolates students with other beliefs and this time could instead be used to practice mindfulness, or time for quiet contemplation 

 I would ask anyone reading this to consider how acceptable mandatory prayer and worship would be if you were told to do this in your office, despite your own religious belief/s, yet we are expecting young and impressionable children to do this at least once a week in primary schools despite it not even reflecting half the population. Sadly, I feel if children were asked to pray to Mecca, or read from the Tora every week, there would be many more concerns from parents or guardians being raised, despite all common religions being a source of guidance which teach love, compassion and respect.

We have a variety of religious and spiritual beliefs across the UK. Let's  call for the British education system to be equitable and inclusive to all students!