Prevent
We wanted to let you know about a new Government strategy called ‘Prevent’. From July 2015 all schools (as well as 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 the same way we protect them from drugs or gang violence. Importantly, we can provide a safe place for pupils to discuss these issues so they better understand how to protect themselves.
WE HAVE COMPLETED WHOLE STAFF PREVENT TRAINING ON 12TH JANUARY 2016
What does this mean in practice?
Many of the things we already do I 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
Challenging prejudices and racist comments
Developing critical thinking skills and a strong, positive self-identity
Promoting the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils, as well as British values such as democracy.
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.
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
The rule of law
Individual liberty and mutual respect
Tolerance of different faiths and beliefs
Participation in community life
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.
St Cuthbert’s school will of course 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 gender 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.
External sources
The following sources may also be useful for further information:
Prevent duty guidance: for England and Wales, HM Government
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploa ds/attachment_data/file/417943/Prevent_Duty_Guida nce_England_Wales.pdf
Frequently asked questions, Prevent For Schools http://www.preventforschools.org/?category_id=38
What is Prevent? Let’s Talk About It http://www.ltai.info/what-is-prevent/
