Schools should make better use of the curriculum to help build pupils’ knowledge, skills and understanding of counter-terrorism

According to an Estyn report, a minority of school leaders do not see the relevance of radicalisation and extremism to their school, which could lead to missed opportunities to identify and address early concerns.

Jassa Scott, Strategic Director, says Schools play a key part in safeguarding young people from radicalising influences. In Wales, nearly half of counter-terrorism referrals are for people aged 20 and under with the highest proportion of these from the education sector.

Radicalisation to violent extremism can happen in the most unexpected places. Schools should be tuned into bullying, in particular the use of racist language and inter-racial conflict between pupils which can indicate radical or extremist views.

Inspectors visited a range of schools and other providers to gather the evidence for this report. In one particular school, staff are able to quickly pick up on issues or any changes in behaviour through a pupil wellbeing survey. The school reacts to any emerging trends by addressing issues through the curriculum in areas like personal and social education, religious education, the Welsh Baccalaureate, English and history.

Welsh Government guidance supports schools to understand their duties, but Estyn recommends that local authorities and consortia need to work together to make better use of the curriculum to support pupils to build resilience when confronted with radicalised and extremist influences.