Independent Review into School Antisemitism Commissioned by Education Secretary
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has launched an independent review into antisemitism within schools, a move prompted by a recent incident where a Jewish MP was prevented from visiting pupils due to threats of protests. The review, led by veteran educationalist Sir David Bell, will examine how school leaders are addressing antisemitism and the influence of external factors, including protests outside school gates.
Incident Sparks Concern Over Safety and Prejudice
The decision follows the postponement of a visit by Jewish MP Damien Egan to Bristol Brunel Academy in September, which was cancelled for safety reasons after activists planned a protest against him. The demonstrators objected to Mr. Egan's role as vice chairman for Labour Friends of Israel. Although the visit was later rescheduled secretly, the Bristol branch of the National Educational Union (NEU) described the initial cancellation as 'a victory for education workers, parents and the community'.
While Mrs. Phillipson did not explicitly mention this incident, it is widely believed to have influenced her action. She highlighted alarming statistics from the Community Security Trust, which recorded 204 school-related antisemitic incidents in 2025—double the levels typically seen before 2023. She stated that these figures are 'stark and clear' and emphasised the 'cost of staying silent in the face of prejudice'.
Review Aims to Address Systemic Issues
Mrs. Phillipson expressed concern that many Jewish teachers feel their complaints about antisemitism are ignored. 'Too many Jewish teachers who raised concerns felt that nothing was done. That is not acceptable,' she said. The review is intended to ensure schools and colleges have the confidence and support needed to tackle antisemitism effectively.
Sir David Bell, who will report back in the autumn, is the vice chancellor of the University of Sunderland and formerly served as the Department for Education's permanent secretary. His review will focus on several key areas:
- How well schools and colleges are supported in handling antisemitic incidents.
- Measures taken to prevent antisemitism from occurring.
- The role of external campaigning organisations in influencing institutional decision-making.
- The impact of external factors such as protests outside school gates and geopolitical events on antisemitism.
Sir David will gather evidence from headteachers, community groups, and religious representatives starting in the spring. He commented, 'I will come at this review with an open and independent mind. I will review both policy and practice to ensure that everyone can learn free from prejudice and hate.' He also aims to identify institutions successfully tackling antisemitism to share best practices across the education system.
Political and Union Responses Highlight Divisions
However, the review has faced criticism from some quarters. Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott welcomed the initiative but argued that it lacks teeth if it avoids scrutinising unions, particularly their role in the Damien Egan incident. She asserted, 'No one should be above accountability and the same urgent action is needed in our universities, where antisemitism continues unchecked.'
Research underscores the urgency of the issue. A survey indicates that a fifth of British Jewish parents report their children experiencing antisemitism at school or during their commute. Additionally, a NASUWT teaching union survey found that 51% of Jewish members experienced antisemitism in the workplace over the past year, with more than half feeling that appropriate action was not taken when they raised concerns.
Background and Ongoing Efforts
In January, schools watchdog Ofsted visited Bristol Brunel Academy following the controversy but found no evidence of political bias among school staff. This review comes after the Department for Education pledged £7 million to tackle antisemitism across all education settings, highlighting a broader commitment to addressing this pervasive issue.
The independent review led by Sir David Bell represents a significant step towards understanding and combating antisemitism in schools, aiming to foster a safer and more inclusive educational environment for all students and staff.
