School investigated for 'promoting evangelical Christianity' found to be compliant

A Welsh high school accused of promoting evangelical Christianity to its pupils is “operating fully within relevant legislation and guidance”, and independent review has found.

In 2024, the National Secular Society raised concerns that the headteacher at Llanidloes High School in Powys was using school resources to heavily indoctrinate children by surrounding them with quotes from the Bible, even as part of scientific posters and teaching materials. He was accused of directing pupils to the evangelistic ‘Alpha’ Christian course.

School planners provided to pupils referred to verses from the Bible. One section read: “If anyone causes one of these little ones — those who believe in me [Jesus] - to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea”. 

Now, Powys Council has said that an “independent fact-finding exercise” commissioned by the authority and the school’s governing body has confirmed that Llanidloes High School, “is operating fully within the relevant legislation and Welsh Government guidance”.

The council said the review was initiated following reports that the school was teaching creationism and promoting Christianity to the exclusion of other religions and non-religious beliefs.

After a “thorough examination”, a report found:

• Creationism has not been taught in science lessons
• There is no evidence of evangelisation or inappropriate promotion of Christianity
• The school’s collective worship arrangements and delivery of the Religion, Values and Ethics (RVE) curriculum comply with Welsh Government requirements

While the review highlighted some areas of practice for further review by the school, no further action is necessary, the council added.

“We welcome the findings of the independent review, which provide assurance that Llanidloes High School is meeting its legal and educational obligations,” said Dr Richard Jones, director of education at Powys Council, and Clare Bound, chair of the Llanidloes Schools’ Federation.

“We welcome the findings of the independent review, which provide assurance that Llanidloes High School is meeting its legal and educational obligations.

“We recognise that this has been a challenging period for the school community and thank staff for their professionalism throughout. Our focus now is on the future, working together to ensure the best possible outcomes for learners.”

Headteacher Daniel Owen said: “We are pleased that the review confirms our compliance with all relevant guidance. Llanidloes High School offers a broad and balanced curriculum and a strong pastoral environment where pupils feel safe and supported.

“We will continue to educate children about Wales’ rich Christian and cultural heritage alongside a wide range of beliefs and values, as part of our commitment to inclusivity and respect.”

After the results of the review were published by Powys Council, the National Secular Society told Wales Online that questions still needed to be answered.

A spokesman for the society said: “These findings raise serious questions about current guidance on religion in schools in Wales. It appears that very little protection exists for the inclusive and pluralistic ethos of non-religious schools, opening the door to evangelism and creationism.

"This case shows why stronger safeguards are needed to prevent schools from being used to promote the personal religious beliefs of those in charge.”