We wanted to let you know about a Government strategy called Prevent. From July 2015 all schools (as well as other other organisations) have a duty to keep children safe from radicalisation and extremism.
This means we have a responsibility to protect children from extremist and violent views and most importantly we can provide a safe place for pupils so they better understand how to protect themselves.
What does this mean in practice?
Many of the things we already do in school to help children become positive, happy members of society also contribute to the Prevent strategy.
These include:
- Exploring other cultures and religions and promoting diversity
- Promoting the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils, as well as British values such as democracy
- Developing critical thinking skills and a strong, positive self-identity
- Challenging prejudices and racist comments
We will also protect children from the risk of radicalisation, for example by using filters on the internet to make sure they can’t access extremist and terrorist material, or by vetting visitors who come into school to work with pupils.
Different schools will carry out the Prevent duty in different ways, depending on the age of the children and the needs of the community.
————————————————————————————-
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Prevent relate to British values?
Schools have been required to promote British values since 2014, and this will continue to be part of our response to the Prevent strategy.
British values include:
- Democracy
- Tolerance of different faiths and beliefs
- Individual liberty and mutual respect
- The rule of law
Isn’t my child too young to learn about extremism?
The Prevent strategy is not just about discussing extremism itself, which may not be appropriate for younger children. It is also about teaching children values such as tolerance and mutual respect.
The school will make sure any discussions are suitable for the age and maturity of the children involved.
Is extremism really a risk in our area?
Extremism can take many forms, including political, religious and misogynistic extremism. Some of these may be a bigger threat in our area than others. We will give children the skills to protect them from any extremist views they may encounter, now or later in their lives.
————————————————————————————-
KEY TERMS
Extremism – vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values such as democracy, the rule of law and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.
Ideology – a set of beliefs
Terrorism – a violent action against people or property, designed to create fear and advance a political, religious or ideological cause.
Radicalisation – the process by which a person comes to support extremism and terrorism.
————————————————————————————-
Where to go for more information
Contact the school
If you have any questions or concerns about the Prevent strategy and what it means for your child, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
See our policies
You will find more details about radicalisation in our safeguarding policy, available on our website. We also have information about spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and British values.
External sources
The following sources may also be useful for further information:
Prevent duty guidance: for England and Wales, HM Government
Frequently asked questions, Prevent for Schools
What is Prevent? Let’s Talk About It