Overview

This bill amends the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 to change how assemblies are conducted in state schools in England. It replaces the requirement for daily collective worship in non-religious state schools with a daily assembly focused on spiritual, moral, social, and cultural education, while allowing for voluntary acts of worship.

Description

The bill mandates daily assemblies in state schools in England that do not have a designated religious character. These assemblies must primarily focus on spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, irrespective of religious belief. The bill repeals the existing requirement for collective worship in these schools. However, it allows for voluntary acts of worship organized by staff or students, provided that under-16s have parental consent to attend.

Key Changes:

• Replaces mandatory collective worship with mandatory assemblies focused on SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural) education in non-religious state schools in England.
• Permits voluntary acts of worship with parental consent for pupils under 16.
• Applies to maintained schools, non-maintained special schools, City Technology Colleges, and academies without a religious character in England.
• Makes consequential amendments to other legislation to ensure consistency.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The changes are primarily legislative and could lead to some administrative costs for schools in implementing new assembly structures, but no specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• State schools in England (non-religious): These schools will need to implement new assembly structures focused on SMSC education.
• Pupils: Will experience different types of assemblies and may have more choice regarding religious observance.
• Parents/Guardians: Will have more say in their children's participation in voluntary acts of worship (especially for those under 16).
• School staff: Will need to adapt their approach to assemblies and may be involved in organizing voluntary acts of worship.
• Local authorities: Will have a role in overseeing the implementation of the changes in maintained schools.

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