Ethics classes gaining ground

PRIMARY Ethics is seeking more volunteer teachers to meet a growing demand for ethics classes in schools throughout the region.

Around 20 primary schools in northern NSW offer ethics classes as an alternative to scripture.

But Primary Ethics northern NSW area manager Sandra Banta said more teachers are needed to maintain and expand the program, in which children explore ethical issues such as truth and lying, whether something is fair or unfair, cheating and friendship.

“There are some core schools with thriving ethics programs such as Bangalow Public School, Byron Bay Public School, Lennox Head Public School, Wyrallah Rd Public School, The Pocket Public School and Teven-Tintenbar Public School,” she said.

Ms Banta said ethics is the most popular choice within the Special Religious Education (SRE) and Special Education in Ethics (SEE) program for parents in the area, with around 50 per cent choosing ethics as the first choice for their child.

“It is the fastest-growing program within SRE/SEE in the region,” she said. “Demand far exceeds supply and we need more volunteers to help bridge this gap. Our core mission is to support children to develop skills in critical thinking, ethical reasoning and collaborative enquiry – skills essential for students navigating our complex, pressurised world.

“Many parents see the value and benefits of developing these core skills and therefore want their children to participate in ethics classes.

“Every time we are able to increase the volunteer numbers, demand for classes continues to increase.”

The independent not-for-profit organisation has been offering ethics classes in NSW schools since 2011.

No prior teaching experience is necessary as free training is provided, but volunteer teachers must complete an interview, a Working with Children Check and National Police Check and commit to teaching at their chosen school once a week for a year.

“Our volunteers come from all walks of life and any age from 18 up — we have many volunteers in their 80s,” Ms Banta said.