AI Image
Schools should recognise antisemitism as distinct form of harm, review says
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- Schools and colleges in England will be required to recognise antisemitism as a distinct safeguarding risk and take explicit action against it, following a government-commissioned review led by Sir David Bell.
- The review recommends dedicated teacher training, consistent recording and reporting of antisemitic incidents, better education on antisemitism and modern Jewish life, and stronger guidance on political impartiality for teachers.
- Antisemitic incidents in schools have surged, with a 59% increase reported in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, reaching the highest level ever recorded.
- Jewish school leaders report spending significant time on security measures, with some schools operating under tight security and conducting regular intruder drills to protect pupils.
- The government is expected to encourage adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism to help schools address the issue, though its use will not be mandatory.
