21 Jun 2019, 10:09Ian Sweeney (Pastor & BUC President)

Children Not in School Government Consultation: BUC Response

The UK Government as part of the process of framing and passing laws, will often conduct consultations so that professionals and members of the public can give their opinion on the law(s) that are to be framed.

One such consultation is with regard to new laws targeting children, who are 'homeschooled' that is, children who receive their education outside of the state and independent school sector.

The UK Government is seeking "…views on proposed legislation to establish a register maintained by local authorities of children not attending mainstream schools, together with associated duties on parents and the proprietors of certain educational settings…"

(https://consult.education.gov.uk/school-frameworks/children-not-in-school/)

While it is not for me to offer speculation as to the motivation for such proposed legislation and whether this legislation is in the best interests of our Adventist constituency, it is true to say that this legislation will have an impact upon a number of Adventist parents and children.

In consultation with Adventist Education specialists I will be completing the consultation on behalf of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the United Kingdom. However, I would prayerfully ask for our Adventist membership to prayerfully fill out the consultation as well, before the deadline of 24 June, 2019.

The consultation can be found at:

https://consult.education.gov.uk/school-frameworks/children-not-in-school/consultation/intro/

For further reading and background, you might like to consult the following websites:

http://www.adventrlp.com/item/74-children-not-in-school-proposed-legislation-government-consultation

This website is hosted by Dr Brighton Kavaloh whose wealth of knowledge in the area of Religious Liberty is unsurpassed in Adventist circles within the BUC.

https://www.eauk.org/what-we-do/public-policy/could-you-respond-to-government-consultations/respond-to-the-children-not-in-school-consultation

This website, which is from the Evangelical Alliance, shares a number of their concerns regarding the proposed legislation.

I would like to thank you for your prayerful and considered response to this call to action.

Additional articles

Tottenham Lighthouse SDA Church Unites Community with Sabbath Fellowship

16 Jan 2025

Tottenham Lighthouse SDA Church Unites Community with Sabbath Fellowship

On 11 January 2025, Tottenham Lighthouse Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted a Sabbath service themed on unity and community. Pastor Jude Jeanville’s sermon, “Come Sup with Me,” inspired attendees to embrace faith in action. Members and visitors from diverse backgrounds shared a meal, fostering connections and inclusivity. This heartwarming initiative exemplified Christ’s method of ministry and left attendees uplifted and inspired.

Plumstead Pathfinder Club Advances to Conference Level in 2025 Pathfinder Bible Experience

15 Jan 2025

Plumstead Pathfinder Club Advances to Conference Level in 2025 Pathfinder Bible Experience

Plumstead Community Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted the Area 6B Adventurer and Pathfinder Bible Experience on 11 January 2025. Despite being a newly formed club, Plumstead’s Pathfinders advanced to the next competition stage alongside Blessed Hope Stars. The event showcased the dedication, resilience, and biblical knowledge of young participants, guided by committed leaders and parents.

SEC Hosts Inspiring Night of Prayer and Praise to Welcome 2025

8 Jan 2025

SEC Hosts Inspiring Night of Prayer and Praise to Welcome 2025

On 31 December 2024, the South England Conference (SEC) Prayer Ministries hosted a powerful night of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving inspired by Esther 4:14. The programme, led by SEC Prayer Coordinator Linda Asare and guest presenters, featured purpose-centred sermonettes, interactive sessions, and heartfelt testimonies. With participants joining from the UK, USA, and Canada, the event marked the New Year 2025 with renewed faith and spiritual strength.