Prevent
All schools have a duty under PREVENT legislation to ensure they do everything they can to prevent members of their school community from being drawn into terrorism. This duty relates to extremism of any kind. It does not relate to any specific religion or belief system.
What is radicalisation?
It is when a person starts to develop extremist views or begins to support terrorism or forms of extremism that leads to terrorism. In some cases, they become involved with organisations or individuals who encourage the development of these ideas. There are some young people who are particularly vulnerable to radicalisation:
- They are usually 13 years old or upwards but not always.
- They may have a personality or identity crisis.
- They may have unmet aspirations or have a personal crisis.
- They may have a need for adventure or excitement.
- They may feel that their culture or religion is under threat.
- Individuals may feel socially isolated or be suffering depression.
- They may demonstrate criminal behaviour.
- They may be groomed by others who promise them excitement, glory or freedom.
What are the signs?
- Feeling isolated or expressions of “us and them” mentality.
- Becoming more argumentative or domineering in their viewpoint – quick to condemn those who disagree with their opinions.
- Downloading extremism content.
- Social isolation – especially if they had been social previously.
- Abnormal routines or travel patterns.
- Altered appearance.
Prevent Statement
There is no place for extremist views of any kind in our school, whether from internal sources- pupils, staff, visiting adults, governors or external sources- school community, external agencies or individuals.
Any prejudice, discrimination or extremist views, including derogatory language, displayed by pupils, staff, visitors or parents will always be challenged and where appropriate, dealt with. Misconduct by staff will be dealt with through the disciplinary process.
We encourage pupils to respect the fundamental British values of: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. We ensure that partisan political views are not promoted in the teaching of any subjects in the school and where political issues are brought to the attention of the pupils, reasonably practicable steps are taken to offer a balanced presentation of opposing views to the pupils.