The TES (February 23) carried an outburst against church or faith-based schools, yet the view expressed in it requires an unquestioning faith in secular humanism.

This seems to be precisely the sort of “blind” faith that it attacks in others. I prefer to place my trust in the views of one whose values lead us to love and pray for our enemies rather than in someone who is unable to tolerate a different view.

Genuine scientific enquiry involves clear, rational thinking in seeking to find a coherent view of the universe. Christianity, rooted in Biblical truth, also seeks to work out a rational and coherent view of our world.

Christians have long been intimidated by accusations of narrow-mindedness and intolerance. They have a valid contribution to make to education. Christian schools are well placed to offer pupils the opportunity of seeking answers to the problems that arise out of the curriculum. They do this in a context of freedom to discuss spiritual aspects without fear of ridicule. We short-change our pupils if we promote only secular values, and pupils who themselves have a faith have the right to express and apply it.

Shirley Dobson
Oxford