The influence of postmodern thought has left its mark on twenty-first century education, introducing concepts such as pluralism, sexual confusion, and marriage between any two people, and seeks to embed gender theory into school curriculum, regardless of the sexual identity of children. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Education Policy Outlook provides a concise analysis of the current Australian education system, compared to international education systems, including ongoing policy and reform efforts.
The revised 2023 report confirmed ongoing issues with teacher shortages, equity issues, and a significant problem with bullying in Australian schools – reportedly three times the global average. The Australian Government is providing $77.6 million to states and territories and non-government school sectors to help schools invest in expert-developed, high-quality, evidence-based and age-appropriate consent and respectful relationships education tailored to their communities. Truth and freedom of speech have been compromised in some universities, colleges and schools. Christian schools are being challenged when they hold to biblical truths. Prayer is urgently required to promote a safe and effective environment for educators and students alike.
- Give thanks that the 2022 Australian Schools Curriculum now acknowledges in the 7-10 Civics and Citizenship Curriculum in its introduction: “The curriculum recognises that Australia is a secular nation with a culturally diverse, multi-faith society and a Christian heritage.”
- Give thanks that the 2022 Australian Schools Curriculum now acknowledges in the 7-10 Civics and Citizenship Curriculum in its introduction: “The curriculum recognises that Australia is a secular nation with a culturally diverse, multi-faith society and a Christian heritage.”
- Education Ministers around Australia unanimously agreed to mandate consent education in schools from 2023. Please pray that schools talk about the negative messaging about sexual activity that’s already out there when dealing with this topic.
- Pray that schools are wise stewards of their own budgets; that school boards actively support and motivate school workers; and Head teachers actively support and encourage all staff and direct morally sound instruction.
- Pray for all Christian schools that they would operate in fear of God not man, & teach & adhere to Gen5:2, Matt19:4 & Genesis 2:22-24. Pray that there would be unity between them. Ps 133:1.
- Pray for the heterosexual marriages in all schools, especially Christian schools.
- Please pray that children are taught that all human lives are valuable and to respect all people, and that this respect is modelled in the school and in the family home. Pray for our students' mental health. Our children are growing up in a world of insecurity. Pray against fear and anxiety in our children. Pray against bullying and intimidation in our schools.
- Pray that the local church would be willing and able to fund the school chaplaincy programme in the absence of government funding. Pray that these Christian chaplains are welcomed by schools into their staffing.
- Pray God will bring into position student leaders within student bodies in schools and universities, who are like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego — filled with wisdom and understanding because they know their God and understand the principles of His kingdom so they are not led astray by ungodly philosophies and teachings that are contrary to the truth of the Word of God. (Daniel 1:3-6)
- Pray that Christian parents, especially, would teach their children from an early age that marriage is a covenant relationship, where they choose to 'love' & respect their spouse and that they demonstrate the importance of nurturing their marriage if married.
- Pray that parents would take responsibility and be active “teachers” in their children’s lives; training their children in the way they should go, so that when they are old they will not depart from it. Pray that honour and respect underpin their relationship with their spouse demonstrating commitment to their marriage. (Proverbs 22:6)
- Pray that fathers will be involved in their children’s lives in a positive way and not anger their children, but raise them properly, teaching them and instructing them about the Lord. Pray that their role as father would be honoured and understood. (Ephesians 6:4)
- Ask the Lord to raise up a new generation of dedicated married and single educators who will commit themselves not only to an honest, accurate presentation of all subject matter, but who will also serve as positive role models to their students by not living in fear of the world, but in fear of the Lord.
- Pray for wisdom and discernment to reign in the hearts of both parents and teachers to safeguard the hearts and minds of our children so that there are no feelings of inadequacy, fear, or uncertainty. Please pray that they would not endorse the Royal Australasian College of Physicians advise on care and treatment for children and adolescents with gender dysphoria which may include the use of puberty blockers and cross sex hormones.
- Pray that our universities are places where ideas are explored and open, respectful opinions can be aired safely by both staff and students. Pray that our colleges and universities might become centres for revival rather than for the tearing down of the Christian faith. Pray that Christian professors and students will stand strong for their faith and be positive role models.
- Pray for all who teach in schools. School reports, managing social issues and other non-active teaching requirements take time out of busy schedules full of extra curricula leaving less time to teach maths, science and reading skills. Please pray that the workload of teachers does not have a detrimental affect on their own family life.
- Declare that teachers, staff, volunteers, and all who come into contact with students, whether married or not, will positively influence and encourage students in ways leading to righteous living. (Proverbs 1:5)
Paula J. Fox’s book 'The Heart of a Teacher', she says to her fellow teachers: “A child’s heart is fragile…don’t break it. A child’s mind is open…don’t close it. A child’s soul is tender…don’t harden it. A child’s spirit is joyful…don’t crush it.”
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
Phil 4:6 KJV
