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Guidelines on how schools can help prevent the spread of violent extremism are being launched

The Government's "learning to be safe kit" will show staff how to raise awareness and deal with the terror threat.

It is hoped the measures will provide support to pupils at risk of being radicalised.

Schools secretary Ed Balls said schools could play a "key role" in helping young people to recognise and reject moves that could draw them into extremism.

Christine Blower, acting general secretary of the National Union of Teachers (NUT), said that for the objectives of the guidance to be achieved, trust had to be maintained in schools.

She said: "No teacher will ignore obvious information about a specific, real threat, but it is vital that teachers are able to discuss with and listen to pupils, without feeling that they have to report every word."

She added: "Tiny, violent political groups can present a significant threat to large numbers of people.

"Terrorist threats have to be tackled. It's worth remembering that groups such as those from the far right can pose intimidatory threats to their communities, as serious as those from al-Qaeda.

"The significant section within the guidance on the curriculum argues for much greater professional freedom to be allowed to teachers who are on the front line of promoting community cohesion.

"There is a very strong argument for providing the time and space in schools to enable teachers to work through the issues posed by determined individuals who are committed to recruiting young people to violent causes."

Related Tags :

• General
• Teaching and Learning
• Behaviour Management

Last Edited Date : October 8 2008 11:08 am