| Humanism is a non-religious approach to life which the Religious Education Council of England and Wales recommends be studied in schools as an example of a ‘non-religious worldview’. Humanists UK supports a broad and balanced education for all young people and recognises the value of the spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development of students. We feel the opportunity for children to learn about the values of both religious & non-religious beliefs is essential if we are to foster social cohesion and respect for all. All children deserve guidance on ways to discover truth, meaning, and happiness in their lives, and how to judge the difference between right and wrong. Humanists UK school speakers can contribute to this development in primary and secondary schools by increasing students’ awareness and understanding about Humanism. Using their life experience and knowledge, they can help to bring an added dimension to the classroom by helping children and young people think about issues from a different perspective. |
| If you are interested in requesting a speaker for your school, then either use the link below to the Humanists UK team, or you can email keith@lancashire.humanist.org.uk |
| Link to Humanist UK School Speaker Request |
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| In the North West of England we have a number of trained School Speakers available to support the schools in their presentation about non-religious world views. This can be an assembly, classroom/workshop session or as part of an interfaith panel event. |
| Typical Questions from Y6 pupils and some responses: Why is Humanism as a religion if they don’t believe in God? Humanism is not a religion. Humanism is simply a way of living for non-religious people, that is ethical and kind. Are the LGBTQ+ community welcome in Humanism? Humanism welcomes and supports everyone, regardless of their background or personal life choices. We do not discriminate against anyone and try to show kindness and support wherever needed. Do you go to something like a church to get together? Do you meet up with other Humanists? We do not go to a church or anything like it. We like to get together for social meetings, where we can get to know more about each other or talk about anything that interests us. Many Humanist groups have book clubs, café meet ups or pub socials. We are always looking for ways to have better meetings that are as inclusive as possible and will listen to ideas from any of our members. Sometimes we have meetings, where someone will give us a talk on an interesting subject, so we can learn a little about a topic – but we then tend to have a social chat afterwards to talk about what we just heard about. If you don’t believe in God, then why do you think you have to be a good person if God isn’t watching? This is a very important part of being a Humanist. We try to live a good life and we expect no reward for it. It is actually linked to the science of how the human body works – if I do a nice thing for someone and I see that they smile or welcome what I have done, then part of my body releases chemicals that make me feel good. So the more that I do good things for people, then the better I feel. However, I am also happy to do things for people without them knowing it was me. I do not want to be rewarded and am simply happy to be kind to others. |
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| Feedback – Birkdale Primary School |
| Rating 5 out of 5. “Keith has a natural rapport with year 6 children, great informative presentation and answered children’s questions clearly, the children really enjoyed the sessions,“ |
| Feedback – Clitheroe Grammar School |
| Rating 5 out of 5. “A clear and coherent presentation, which was not dismissive of religious faith but which focused more on the positive values of humanism. I liked Keith’s emphasis on how humanists can work alongside people of religious faith for the benefit of all humans in both local communities and the wider world.” |
| Feedback – St Wilfrid’s CofE Academy |
| Rating 5 out of 5. “Keith prepared a detailed presentation on the meaning of Humanism for our Year 7 students and included his own personal experiences and how he came to be a humanist. Hearing his own personal experiences and views was really helpful for our students and something that we aren’t able to offer from a ‘textbook.’ Keith planned for enough time for students to ask questions and he answered them all thoroughly with his extensive knowledge on some ‘big’ questions. His communication prior to visiting was excellent and he brought with him a range of leaflet resources for the school and to share with students. Thank you for allowing our students to be part of such a insightful and positive experience.” |
| Feedback – Clayton-le-Woods Manor Road Primary School |
| Rating 5 out of 5. “Keith was fantastic with the children and provided them with lots of facts and information. He then gave the children the chance to ask lots of questions, which was super!” |