New guidance for schools which includes the teaching of non-religious views alongside an understanding of Devon's many faiths, has been welcomed by Devon Humanists.
According to the "Devon Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education 2014", pupils will study "Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism and Islam and non-religious worldviews such as Humanism".
Keith Denby, chairman of Devon Humanists, said: "The 2011 Census showed that 25% of people in England and Wales describe themselves as having no religion. This figure rises to 65% of the 18-25 population according to the British Social Attitudes survey.
"It is now more important than ever that children in our schools are made aware that, far from being somehow deficient in their values, non-religious people can live ethical and fulfilling lives on the basis of reason and humanity.
"They trust to the scientific method, evidence, and reason to discover truths about the universe and place human welfare and happiness at the centre of their ethical decision making.
"This outlook on life is coherent and widely-shared, and has inspired some of the world's greatest artists, writers, scientists, philosophers and social reformers."
Mr Denby said they were "keen to help teachers provide a balance between faith and non-faith based philosophies" by supporting the teaching of Humanism and other non-religious belief systems.
He added: "This new acceptance of non-religious worldviews is a real step forward and recognises that Devon is rapidly changing.
"We now live in a county of many faiths and, increasingly, of no faith, and so it is important that our young people are made aware of the beliefs of all our communities.
"We need to live and work together, and mutual understanding is the best tool we can give our children so they can live in harmony in the future."
