Pepe Di’Iasio, General Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, comments on Sir David Bell’s independent review into antisemitism in schools and colleges.
“We welcome Sir David Bell’s review and recommendations on tackling antisemitism. We are particularly pleased to see his call for clearer guidance and practical support for schools and colleges.
“Antisemitism, like all forms of discrimination, is utterly unacceptable and abhorrent. Unfortunately, there are differing views on what may or may not constitute antisemitism and what is a legitimate expression of views over the conflict between Israel and Palestine. Schools and colleges are often caught in the middle of divisive issues and find themselves having to navigate between strongly held opinions on either side of an argument.
“It is important that teachers are able to facilitate important conversations as this is key to the understanding of complex issues. They must be able to do this with confidence. Clear guidance and support are therefore essential and welcome.
“It is important to understand that schools and colleges already robustly protect children and young people from all forms of racism, bullying, and harassment, and teach pupils and students the importance of mutual respect and tolerance.
“They are also subject to strict legal duties which prohibit the promotion of partisan political views, and they take this responsibility extremely seriously.”