The recent violence erupting across England and Northern Ireland has prompted a body representing the teaching profession to call for urgent action from the government. The Chartered College of Teaching has urged the government to convene a working group that includes teachers and leaders to address the urgent social issues fueling the riots and to provide the necessary support for schools to tackle these issues effectively.
The country’s largest teaching union, the NEU, has also emphasized the need for the curriculum review to address the underlying social issues contributing to the violence. Daniel Kebede, the general secretary of the NEU, highlighted the importance of teachers taking the lead in challenging racism, Islamophobia, and antisemitism in classrooms to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all students.
Professor Becky Francis, chief executive of the Education Endowment Foundation, is set to lead the curriculum review, which aims to build an anti-racist curriculum that promotes engagement, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging for every child. However, the Chartered College of Teaching believes that the issues at hand go beyond the curriculum and require a more comprehensive approach involving the voices of expert teachers and leaders.
The recent events have raised concerns about the impact on the wellbeing of school staff and students when schools reopen in a few weeks. The violent riots following the tragic stabbings of three girls have highlighted the need for schools to address divisive and racist rhetoric on a daily basis. It is essential for schools to provide a platform for discussions on social issues such as racism, discrimination, and social justice to promote understanding and empathy among students.
In light of the recent events, schools are urged to be prepared to support traumatized students and to invest in a culture and curriculum that promotes racial justice. Teachers and leaders may also need support to process their emotions and respond effectively to the challenges of division and violence in their communities. It is crucial for schools to tackle issues of discrimination and disinformation head-on to create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.
As schools prepare to reopen, it is important for educators to be mindful of the impact of recent events on the mental health and wellbeing of staff and students. The support helpline provided by Education Support can offer assistance to those who may be deeply affected by the violence and racism displayed in the aftermath of the tragic events. Schools are encouraged to prioritize the wellbeing of their staff and students and to foster constructive conversations that promote unity and understanding in their classrooms.
In conclusion, the recent events have underscored the importance of addressing urgent social issues in schools and providing the necessary support for teachers and leaders to tackle these challenges effectively. By working together and prioritizing the wellbeing of staff and students, schools can create a safe and inclusive environment that promotes respect, empathy, and understanding among all members of the school community.