McGaw accepts Coalition criticism on National C

McGaw accepts Coalition criticism on National Curriculum

Professor Barry McGaw's decision to remove the references to the indigenous concept of the Dreamtime from the national science curriculum is a welcome sign that the Australian Curriculum Board is prepared to accept constructive criticism, Christopher Pyne, Shadow Minister for Education said today.

"Less than 48 hours after the Coalition pointed out the extraordinary imbalance of references to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island culture, Professor McGaw has shown that the Coalition's concerns were justified," Mr Pyne said.

This does raise the question as to how many other mistakes are waiting to be found in the National Curriculum," he said.

Parents are raising concerns with Coalition Members and Senators about some of the more unusual inclusions that will be taught from Kindergarten to Grade 10.

The Coalition supports the study of indigenous history and culture in the national curriculum but this needs to be balanced with the study of the foundations of our western society - the Westminster Parliamentary system, a commitment to the rule of law, egalitarianism and equality, and the preparedness to fight for liberty and freedom.

"We are preparing a detailed submission in response to the National Curriculum, particularly focussing on the concerns of Australian parents," Mr Pyne

March 4, 2010

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