The development of themelic schools in Australia

This thesis investigates a new kind of conservative Protestant schooling that emerged in Australia after 1962.Themelic schools developed out of a reaction to secular humanist trends which emerged after World War II. The author argues that these schools constitute a system which warrants greater research. Historical, philosophical and theological work is integrated with a considerable methodological basis in oral history. The research seeks to introduce the schools, clarify their theoretical positions, evaluate their theological and social position and offer criticism and recommendations regarding their educative value. One of the central arguments is that the themelic system of schooling is one of fear and confusion.It is argued that the themelic system is laden with numerous contradictions that have not been addressed and that the schools are reactionary, authoritarian and educationally limited. Some recommendations are made that address organisational and language issues. Though criticism offered is sometimes negative, the intended outcomes of the thesis are positive so as to help these schools establish better environments for educatio