by Stephen J. McKinney, Walter Humes and Roger Edwards

One of the challenges in the introduction of the Education (Scotland) Act, 1872 was to navigate a path through the contrasting positions concerning religious instruction and observance proposed for the new school system. The new system would establish non-denominational board (or public) schools that were to be open to children of all denominations. In the preparation for the Act in parliamentary debates, there were different views on the best way forward.

Stephen J. McKinney is a professor in the University of Glasgow.

Walter M. Humes is an honorary professor at the University of Stirling.

Roger Edwards is a researcher and member of Scottish Episcopal Church Historians’ group