Secular Education Forum
The Secular Education Forum (SEF) provides expert and professional advice and opinion to the National Secular Society (NSS) on issues related to education and provides a forum for anyone with expertise in the intersection of education and secularism.
The SEF's main objective is to advocate the value of secularism/religious neutrality as a professional standard in education. The SEF welcomes supporters of all faiths and none. It provides expert support for the NSS working towards a secular education system free from religious privilege, proselytization, partisanship or discrimination.
Want to get involved?
Sign upJoin our mailing list to apply to join the forum. You'll be kept up to date with news, meetups and opportunities to contribute or volunteer.
Membership of the Secular Education Forum is intended for education professionals (including current, former and trainee professionals) and those with a particular expertise in the intersection of secularism and education. All requests to join will be considered after signing up to the mailing list.
Education blogs and commentary
A selection of blogs and comment pieces on education and secularism. For education news from the NSS, please click here.
We must stop giving public funds to religious colleges which restrict academic freedom
Posted: Fri, 2nd Feb 2024
Many religious higher education providers are shirking their duty to uphold freedom of expression and academic freedom. Christopher Higgins and Keith Sharpe say it's time to stop funding these institutions.
Michaela shows the need to end collective worship laws
Posted: Tue, 23rd Jan 2024
The Michaela case demonstrates why we need a change in law to enable schools to promote a secular, inclusive ethos, says Megan Manson.
Ritual slaughter: is the government about to renege on its commitment to consult?
Posted: Fri, 12th Jan 2024
Stephen Evans criticises the government's U-turn on animal welfare and says food labelling policy should serve consumers rather than religious interests.
Time to bring policies on religion in line with public opinion
Posted: Tue, 9th Jan 2024
As yet another study confirms Brits aren't keen on religion, Megan Manson says politicians should reflect public opinion by reeling in religious privilege.
Religion should not be a roadblock to child safeguarding in healthcare
Posted: Tue, 2nd Jan 2024
A new paper highlights barriers to reforming guidance on non-therapeutic circumcision. The author, Dr Antony Lempert, explains why religion is one of the biggest barriers of all.
