The school has updated the Prevent Policy which is a legal requirement.

As a primary school we embrace this agenda, mindful of the age of children in our school, tailoring our policy accordingly.

Education can be a powerful tool, equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and reflex to think for themselves, to challenge and to debate; and giving young people the opportunity to learn about different cultures and faiths and, to gain an understanding of the values we share.  Exploring ideas, developing a sense of identity and forming views are a normal part of growing up.  Schools can support young people in this: providing a safe environment for discussing controversial issues and helping young people understand how they can influence and participate in decision making.

We need to encourage young people to express their views but also to appreciate the impact their views can have on others, to take responsibility for their actions and to understand that the use of violence to further any cause is criminal.  “We believe that schools of all kin=ds can play a role in enabling young people to explore issues like terrorism and the wider use of violence in a considered and informed way.  According to a survey by the UK Youth Parliament in August 2008, 94% of young people said they thought schools were the best environment in which to discuss terrorism.  Schools can facilitate understanding of wider issues within the context of learning about the values on which our society is founded and our system of democratic government.  These are important for reasons which go far beyond Prevent but they connect to the Prevent agenda” (Prevent Strategy).

We also need to recognise that, young people can be exposed to extremist influences or prejudiced views, particularly those via the internet and other social media.  “Schools can help to protect children from extremist and violent views in the same ways that they can help to safeguard children from drugs, gang violence or alcohol.  Schools’ work on Prevent needs to be seen in this context.  The purpose must be to protect children from harm and to ensure that they are taught a way that is consistent with the law and our values.  Awareness of Prevent and the risks it is intended to address are both vital.  Staff can help identify, and to refer to the relevant agencies, children whose behaviour suggests that they are being drawn into terrorism or extremism” (Prevent Strategy).

Schools, working with other local partners, families and communities, can help support pupils who may be vulnerable as part of their safeguarding responsibilities.