Prevent
The Prevent Strategy was established in 2011 with three main aims:
- to respond to the ideological challenge of terrorism and the threat faced from those who promote it
- to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism and ensure that they are given appropriate advice and support
- to work with sectors and institutions where there are risks of radicalisation
Schools are listed as one of these sectors (or "specified authorities") in Section 26 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. All staff at Elton Church of England Primary School have Prevent awareness training, and Claire Arnold and Lisa Beasley have both completed enhanced training including Referrals and Channel/PMAP training. Claire Arnold is the Prevent Lead.
What is radicalisation?
It is when a person starts to support terrorism or forms of extremism that leads to terrorism.
- They are usually slightly older than primary school age, but not always.
- They may have a personality or identity crisis.
- They may have unmet aspirations or be experiencing some kind of personal change or event.
- They may have a need for adventure or excitement.
- They may feel that their culture or religion is under threat.
- Individuals may feel socially isolated or suffering depression.
- They may demonstrate criminal behaviour.
- They may be groomed by others who promise them excitement, glory or freedom.
What are the signs?
- Overly sensitive about online viewing.
- Feeling isolated or expressions of “us and them” mentality.
- Becoming more argumentative or domineering in their viewpoint – quick to condemn those who disagree with their opinions.
- Downloading extremism content.
- Social isolation – especially if they had been social previously.
- Abnormal routines or travel patterns.
- Altered appearance.
Prevent Statement
There is no place for extremist views of any kind in our school - we are proud of our welcoming, Christian school, where all children are loved for who they are. We teach children to be empathetic, and to live our Christian values displaying compassion and justice to all they meet. Our "Big Question" curriculum and its related concepts fully supports this and also expands children's knowledge and ideas of other cultures, traditions and beliefs.
We encourage pupils to respect the fundamental British values of: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Any prejudice, discrimination or extremist views, including derogatory language, displayed by pupils, staff, visitors or parents will always be challenged and dealt with appropriately.