Prevent Strategy
What is the Prevent strategy?
Prevent is a government strategy designed to stop people becoming terrorists or supporting terrorist or extremist causes.
The Prevent strategy covers all types of terrorism and extremism, including the extreme right wing, violent Islamist groups and other causes.
How does the Prevent strategy 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 we have a responsibility to protect children from extremist and violent views the same way we protect them from any other harm. Importantly, we can provide a safe space in which children can understand and discuss sensitive topics learning not only tolerance and understanding but also how to challenge ideas at an appropriate level so they better understand how to protect themselves. Prevent is seen as part of our existing Safeguarding framework which ensures the safety and well-being of all children and young people.
What does this mean in practice to Bradwell Village School?
Many of the things we already do in school to help children become positive, happy members of society also contribute to the Prevent strategy. These include:
- Having a strong Aims and Ethos which pervades our school.
- Exploring other cultures and religions and promoting diversity.
- Challenging prejudices and racist comments.
- Promoting the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils, as well as British values such as democracy.
- Developing critical thinking skills and a strong, positive self-identity.
We will also protect children from the risk of radicalisation, for example by using filters on the internet to make sure they can’t access extremist and terrorist material, or by vetting visitors who come into school to work with pupils.
Do you need more information?
Contact the school - If you have any questions or concerns about the Prevent Strategy and what it means for your child, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
External sources - The following sources may also be useful for further information:
- Prevent duty guidance: for England and Wales, HM Government
- Frequently asked questions, Prevent For Schools
- What is Prevent? Let’s Talk About It
- Anti Terrorist Hotline 0800 789 321
- Crime stoppers: 0800 555 111
- Relevant Police force: 101
Key Terms
Extremism – vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values.
Ideology – a set of beliefs
Terrorism – a violent action against people or property, designed to create fear and advance a political, religious or ideological cause
Radicalisation – the process by which a person comes to support extremism and terrorism