The lessons we learn as children help shape our fundamental values and principles, and the way we hold ourselves as adults in the world. That’s why, in 2010, we founded Primary Ethics – an independent charity providing ethics classes for primary school students in NSW. An alternative to religious education or quiet supervision, Primary Ethics helps the children develop important skills in critical thinking and moral reasoning.
During Primary Ethics classes, trained volunteer teachers invite children to reflect on their own behaviour, values and principles. They are encouraged to consider the interests of others, assess ways of dealing with tricky issues and cultivate an understanding around the consequences of their actions.
The focus is on skills development, rather than the promotion of any particular view. Through open discussion and hypothetical situations, students learn to make their own judgments about whether something is right or wrong, and to explain why, using evidence and reason.
40,000
CHILDREN PARTICIPATING IN ETHICS CLASSES ANNUALLY
500
NSW SCHOOLS OFFERING PRIMARY ETHICS CLASSES
2,500
VOLUNTEERS STATE-WIDE
GET INVOLVED
Ethics classes empower tomorrow’s decision makers. An independently-run charity, Primary Ethics does not receive any government funding. The program depends on generous supporters to provide financial, volunteering and in-kind support. There are many ways you can get involved; volunteer as an ethics teacher, donate or become a corporate sponsor. For more information, visit the Primary Ethics website — primaryethics.com.au