Quakers support renewed call for Global Learning in schools
Quakers in Britain joined MPs, educators, civil society groups and school students at the launch of the Case for Global Learning report at the Houses of Parliament on Tuesday 8 July.
The report calls for urgent government action to support schools in addressing the global issues facing us today.
Endorsed by Quakers in Britain's peace education team, the report urges the government to help teachers explore interconnected crises such as climate change, conflict, inequality and poverty.
It argues that structured Global Learning in classrooms helps young people better understand the world and their role within it.
The report was drawn up by University College London's Development Education Research Centre with the support of over 30 organisations, including Coventry University and Christian Aid.
MPs attending the launch included Steve Race, Fabian Hamilton, Sarah Green and Richard Burgon.
The report calls for a properly resourced UK-wide framework to reverse the decline in support for global learning from Westminster and Europe in recent years.
Urgent need to build skills and values
“It is clear that the happiness and mental well-being of children and young people is tangibly negatively affected by global issues and concerns," the report says.
It stressed the urgent need to build the skills and values needed to respond to complex problems and global threats.
Martin Russell, director of UNICEF UK, told the launch on Tuesday that while the UK ratified the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child in 1991, it has yet to realise every child's right to education for peace and freedom.
Quakers have long supported peace education as a way to promote values of peace, equality and sustainability.
Through training, advocacy and practical resources, Quakers in Britain continue to work alongside educators and civil society groups to make this vision a reality.
Isabel Cartwright, peace education manager for Quakers in Britain, said: “Social media means young people often watching global events unfold unfiltered. These issues impact mental health and relationships in schools.
“Yet Global Learning hasn't been prioritised in recent decades. We urge the Government to support teachers to embrace Global Learning to equip the next generation of peace builders."