Churches Challenge Over-Stressed Education System on Education Sunday

Observed by churches and education institutions in England and Wales for over a hundred years, Education Sunday will be celebrated on 23rd January as a national and ecumenical day of prayer for everyone in the world of education.

The theme "A More Excellent Way" has been set. The education system in the UK is condemned by the churches for posing unacceptably high stress levels on teachers and pupils. The churches are now questioning some of the underlying assumptions that have led to this situation.

Graham Russell, Chairman of the ecumenical Education Sunday Steering Group, says "Schools, colleges and universities are under constant pressure to improve their performance and fulfil new requirements. This approach to education can encourage unhealthy competition between institutions and undermines our responsibility to help individuals achieve their full potential. Is it any wonder that the joys of learning and teaching are so often overshadowed by high levels of stress?"

The churches challenge the current Education system with reference to Jesus’ teaching on ambition, success and power, which if taken seriously will help lead to rediscovering the joy of both learning and teaching.

"The aim of Education Sunday is to encourage congregations to think about schools and colleges," says Graham Russell.

"Many churches have links with local schools, but there are wider issues we also need to consider. And we want to offer our prayers and support for all those in the education sector: students, teachers, chaplains, administrators, policy-makers and many more."

An ecumenical group has prepared resources for those planning worship for Education Sunday and copies have been sent to many schools and congregations. They are also available on many church and ecumenical websites.