Ofsted checks on school extremism
Ofsted inspectors are to check that schools are promoting tolerance for
other cultures, in a survey of independent faith schools in England.
The education watchdog has been asked to examine the spiritual and
cultural ethos being taught.
Last month, a think tank claimed some Muslim schools were allowing
pupils to be influenced by extremist values.
Schools Secretary Ed Balls said schools must prepare pupils for "life in
wider British society".
The Association of Muslim Schools has welcomed the announcement.
"As Muslim schools we believe that we are at the forefront of preparing
children and young people to face the challenges of life in modern
Britain and to also contribute in a positive way to wider society," said
a statement from the association.
'Ethos and values'
The report from think tank Civitas, called Music, Chess and other Sins:
Segregation, Integration, and Muslim Schools in Britain, claimed that
some Muslim schools were allowing extremist views to be promoted.
The Association of Muslim Schools had attacked that report as "divisive
and dishonest".
Mr Balls has now asked Ofsted to carry out a survey in a small number of
independent faith schools to investigate how they support the
"spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils".
"Some concerns have been raised recently about practice in a small
minority of independent faith schools and whether they are effectively
preparing pupils for life in wider British society," said Mr Balls.
The survey will consider the "ethos and values" of the schools and the
influences on pupils through the curriculum, activities outside lessons
and links with other organisations.
A large majority of Muslim schools are within the independent sector -
although there are plans for an expansion of Muslim schools within the
state sector.
The survey will look at a sample of schools from different faith groups.
In 2005 the then chief inspector of schools, David Bell, sparked a row
when he said that independent Muslim schools must make greater efforts
to show pupils a "common heritage".
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.
Published: 2009/03/09 18:21:40 GMT
Monday 9 March 2009
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