Protecting Students From Extremist Views

Statement: How we protect students from extremist views, including political and religious extremism

Introduction and context

Keeping Children Safe in Education (DfE, 2022) sets out that, similar to protecting children from other
forms of harms and abuse, protecting children from radicalisation should be seen as part of schools'
and colleges' wider safeguarding duties.

In addition, the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act (HMG, 2015) placed a duty on schools and other
education providers. Under Section 26 schools must, in the exercise of their functions, have 'due regard
to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism'. This is the Prevent Duty.

“The aftermath of events such as the London bombings in 2005 has highlighted the need to combat
extremisms and develop young people’s resilience to potentially harmful ideologies to prevent them
from being radicalised.

• Extremism is more than simply stubbornness in one’s view or general intolerance to others. It involves holding views which are considered by equals, peers and society as being at odds with thecore beliefs of the whole;
• Radicalisation is the process by which people adopt an extreme position in terms of politics and religion, a violent extremist ideology, or move to violent action in support of their beliefs;
• Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity and describes a process in which people can overcome or resist negative influences that block emotional well-being and/or achievement”

The role of staff

St Benedict’s Catholic College will not tolerate the expression of extremist views by staff or governors,
either in college to students or staff, or via social media.

We will support students by remaining vigilant to the possibility of them being exposed to extremist
literature or propaganda. This could happen whilst on educational visits. We will ensure that anyone
who encounters such literature will be offered sensitive and balanced views to counteract any negative
impact. Students are vulnerable to such influences and must be safeguarded from any grooming
activities related to extremism. If staff become concerned, or a student reports being exposed to
extremist literature or views, then the designated lead for safeguarding (Georgia Davies) should be
informed. Where concerns of radicalisation or extremism are raised, or if a child is at risk of or subject
to harm because of these issues a referral to the Children and Families Hub will be made.

If any visitors to the college express extremist views either verbally or in writing, the matter should be
immediately reported to a member of the leadership team.

Our curriculum and wider college life

There are many and varied opportunities to promote resilience to extremism amongst our young people.
British values are explored and promoted in lessons as well as through assemblies and PSHE. The
following serve as an example: RE lessons enable students to discuss current issues and consider
choices and decisions made by people. Reflection is encouraged daily through collective worship.
Subjects such as history, geography and English develop the skills of critical thinking and intellectual
enquiry. These skills are further utilized in public speaking competitions and debating club. Fundraising
and other charitable activities give students an opportunity to understand diversity in the UK and to
debate issues of social justice in a safe context.

JSA - April 2015

Reviewed September 2022