Fears raised over faith schools

Faith schools have proved a contentious issue

Claims that two new faith schools on Teesside will force Christian teachings on children of other religions have been rejected.

St Francis of Assisi Primary school will open in Ingleby Barwick within weeks, while the nearby Church of England Secondary school, All Saints, will be ready in time for the new academic year.

Fears have been raised that some local children may have to go there because of where they live, instead of what they believe.

But Dr Ann Lees, York Diocian Director of Education, said the schools would educate children about Christianity, but would not force Anglican beliefs onto non-Christian students.

'Whole community'

She said the schools would offer a balanced education.

And while the schools are open to the wider community, Dr Lees added that some of the places would be kept open for local churchgoers.

She told BBC Radio Cleveland: "The majority of [the places] are open simply to those people who live closest to the school.

"Both the schools, primary and secondary, are very welcoming, they will open their doors to the whole community to serve the whole community."