What is the Prevent Strategy?

Prevent is a government initiative aimed at preventing individuals from becoming involved in terrorism or supporting extremist causes. It addresses all forms of extremism, including far-right ideologies, violent Islamist groups, and other extremist threats.

How Does the Prevent Strategy Apply to Schools?

Since July 2015, all schools and other organisations working with children have a duty to safeguard them from radicalisation and extremism. This responsibility includes protecting pupils from exposure to extremist views, just as we would protect them from dangers such as drugs or gang violence.

At our school, we provide a safe environment where children can discuss these issues, helping them understand how to keep themselves and others safe.

How Does This Work in Practice?

Many of our everyday school activities already support the aims of the Prevent strategy. These include:

• Promoting diversity by exploring different cultures and religions.

• Challenging prejudices and discriminatory comments.

• Encouraging critical thinking and fostering a strong, positive self-identity.

• Supporting pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, including the promotion of British values such as democracy and respect.

Additionally, we take measures to protect children from the risk of radicalisation. This includes using internet filters to block extremist content and ensuring that all external visitors to the school are appropriately vetted.

Each school implements the Prevent strategy in a way that best meets the needs of its pupils and the local community.

Key Definitions

• Extremism – Vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.

• Ideology – A system of beliefs or ideas.

• Terrorism – Acts of violence against people or property, intended to cause fear and promote a political, religious, or ideological cause.

• Radicalisation – The process by which a person comes to support extremist views or terrorist activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Prevent strategy relate to British values?
Schools have been required to promote British values since 2014, and this remains a key element of the Prevent strategy. British values include:

• Democracy

• The rule of law

• Individual liberty

• Mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs

Is my child too young to learn about extremism?
The Prevent strategy is not solely focused on extremism itself, particularly for younger children. Instead, it emphasises core values such as tolerance, respect, and critical thinking. Any discussions are always tailored to the age and maturity of the children involved.

Is extremism a risk in our area?
Extremism can take many forms, including political, religious, and ideological extremism. While some types may be more prevalent in certain areas, we aim to equip all children with the skills to recognise and challenge extremist views wherever they may encounter them, now or in the future.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school.