Anti-Radicalisation: PREVENT

In March 2015, the ‘Counterterrorism and Security Act’ (2015) came into force, giving schools the responsibility to prevent children being drawn into extremism.   At Bridge Hall, we feel safeguarding children from all risks of harm is an essential part of our daily work and protecting them from extremism is one aspect of that.

In our school we believe that our curriculum should allow our pupils to explore the diverse society we live in and begin to understand Britain as a multicultural society.  Our teaching is based on the principle that we should treat everyone with respect, whatever their race, gender, sexual orientation, religious belief, special need or disability. We aim to enable our teachers to engage children in promoting a positive attitude towards others with a focus on shared values whilst developing a high regard for themselves. By building self-esteem, children are encouraged to stand firm and be positive about others and not influenced by negative peer pressure.

What is PREVENT?
PREVENT is a key part of the Government’s strategy to prevent extremism and radicalisation. Early intervention is at the heart of PREVENT in diverting people away from being drawn into terrorist activity.  PREVENT happens before any criminal activity takes place – it is about recognising, supporting and protecting people who might be susceptible to radicalisation in whatever form that may take, e.g. developing and pursuing political and religious beliefs that may harm and endanger others.

Awareness of PREVENT, and an understanding of the risks it is intended to address, is vital to help identify young people whose behaviours suggest they may be drawn into terrorism or extremism.

• Radicalisation: the process by which people come to support terrorism and extremism and, in some cases, go on to participate in terrorist groups
• Extremism: vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths

Warning Signs and Risk Factors

• Accessing extremist websites, especially those with a social networking element
• Possessing extremist literature
• Peer, social , family or faith group rejection
• International events in areas of conflict and civil unrest have a personal impact on the young person, resulting in a noticeable change in behaviour.
• Verbal or written support of terrorist attacks or extremist views
• First-hand experience of racial or religious hate crime
• Extended periods of travel to international locations known to be associated with extremism
• Evidence of fraudulent identity/use of documents to support this
• Experience of disadvantage, discrimination or social exclusion
• History of criminal activity
• Pending a decision on their immigration/national status
• Being in contact with extremist recruiters

Help and Advice

If you need help or advice about PREVENT, please contact Headteacher Alexandra Jamieson or Deputy Head Deborah Henderson. Concerns about suspicious activity or behaviour can be reported to the Confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. In the case of an immediate threat, always dial 999.