Prevent
Prevent A guide for parents
What is Prevent and why do I need to be aware of it?
Prevent is a government strategy designed to prevent people becoming terrorists or supporting terrorist or extremist causes. The strategy covers all types of terrorism and extremism including the extreme right wing, Islamic groups and other causes.
Why does this apply to schools?
From July 2015 all schools (as well as other organisations) have a duty to safeguard children from radicalisation and extremism. This means that we have a responsibility to protect children from extremist and violent views in the same way that children are prevented from other forms of harm. We provide children with a safe place to discuss these issues so that they better understand how to protect themselves.
What does this mean in practice?
As a school Much Birch does many things to ensure children can become happy, positive members of society and this is the key to Prevent. These include:
- Exploring a variety of faiths and cultures
- celebrating diversity
- Challenging prejudices and racist or homophobic comments
- Promoting British Values as well as spiritual, moral, cultural and social education
Why does this apply to my child?
The Prevent strategy isn’t only about discussing extremism. It is about teaching children about values for life such as tolerance and mutual respect, why democracy is essential to our society. We will ensure that any discussions are appropriate for the age and maturity of all children.
Is extremism really a risk in our area?
Extremism can take many forms including religious, political and misogynistic extremsism. We aim to provide our children with the skills they need to counter any form of extremism should they face it now or in the future.
How would I know if I should be concerned, now or in the future?
Signs may include:
- Out of character changes in behaviour and peer relationships
- Secretive behaviour
- Losing interest in friends or activities
- Showing sympathy for extremist causes
- Glorifying violence
- Advocating messages linked to illegal organisations
How can I help my child to stay safe?
- Know where your child is and who they are with.
- Know your child’s friends.
- Keep lines of communicaiton open, listen and talk to your child.
- Talk to them about what is in the media, encourage debate and discussion.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the school.
You will find more details about radicalisation in our safeguarding policy on the school website where we also have information about British Values and spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.