Christian group booted from UK school following complaints about 'extremist' teachings

A Christian group was banned from a primary school in England after parents complained that their children are being exposed to its "extremist" teachings.

A group of parents has raised concern that representatives of the charity CrossTeach had been upsetting their children by teaching them about sin.

One parent had complained that her son had been told that "men can't marry men," while another lamented that the children were told "they would not go to a good place when they died" if they did not believe in God.

Another incident that prompted the complaints involved a CrossTeach guest speaker who attempted to demonstrate "the destructive power of God" by smashing a model boat.

The parents said that they have been complaining for several months, but the school had failed to address the issue.

"We recognise and respect the school's Christian values but think there is a brand of Christianity that is abusing that respect. The basis of [our] complaint relates purely to concerns over the welfare and safeguarding of children who we believe are being exposed to potentially damaging ideology," the parents said in a statement, according to The Guardian.

On Monday, Dan Turvey, the headteacher of St. John's Church of England primary school in Tunbridge Wells, told the parents in a letter that he will no longer send invite CrossTeach to lead assemblies and take lessons.

However, the headteacher insisted that he had not heard extremist views being expressed at school and said that he was "deeply saddened" to cut ties with the group.

"They do not deserve the tarnishing of their good name and allegations of extremism that have taken place over the last few months," Turvey said in his letter to the parents.

He said that the group will still be able to run after-school clubs for children and parents who are willing to participate.

The Rev. Dick Farr of St. John's Church said that the church "fully supported" Turvey's decision, but contended that the parents needed to remember that the school is operated by the church.

The Guardian noted that faith schools, such as St. John's, has more leeway to promote the Church of England and Christianity to pupils, but there is still a requirement to adhere to Department for Education guidelines regarding fundamental values. These guidelines include equality and non-discrimination in matters such as gay marriage, as well as respect and tolerance for other faiths.

Wayne Harris, the national director at CrossTeach, stressed that the group worked with schools under constant supervision, adding that it has observed school policies and national guidelines, where applicable.