Prevent

SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (SPOC) at the Academy – Miss Dale (DDSL)

Why is this guide being shared?

It is being shared with all parents because protecting children from extremism is a team effort. It is not only about teenagers and older children. It is not only about cities. It is about everyone.

What is Prevent?

Prevent is a government strategy designed to stop people becoming terrorists or supporting terrorist or extremist causes. The strategy covers all types of terrorism and extremism including the extreme right wing, Islamic groups and other causes.

Why does this apply to schools?

From July 2015 all schools (as well as other organisations) have a duty to safeguard children from radicalisation and extremism. This means that we have a responsibility to protect children from extremist and violent views in the same way that children are prevented from other forms of harm. We provide children with a safe place to discuss these issues so that they better understand how to protect themselves.

What does this mean in practice?

Many of the things we already do in school help children to become happy, positive members of society and this is the key to Prevent. These include:

  • Exploring a variety of faiths and cultures
  • Promoting diversity
  • Challenging prejudices and racist or homophobic comments
  • Developing thinking skills and a positive identity
  • Promoting British Values as well as spiritual, moral, cultural and social education

Isn’t my child too young to learn about this?

The Prevent strategy isn’t only about discussing extremism, which is not appropriate for very young children. It is about teaching children about values for life such as tolerance and mutual respect. We will ensure that any discussions are appropriate for the age and maturity of all children.

Is extremism really a risk in our area?

Extremism can take many forms including religious, political and misogynistic extremism. We aim to equip children with the skills they need to counter any form of extremism should they face it now or in the future

How would I know if I should be concerned, now or in the future?

Signs may include:

  • Out of character changes in behaviour and peer relationships
  • Secretive behaviour
  • Losing interest in friends or activities
  • Showing sympathy for extremist causes
  • Glorifying violence
  • Advocating messages linked to illegal organisations

How can I help my child to stay safe?

  • Know where your child is and who they are with. Check this for yourself
  • Know your child’s friends
  • Keep lines of communication open, listen and talk to your child
  • Talk to them about what is in the media, encourage debate and discussion

Where to go for more information

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the school. You will find more details about radicalisation in our safeguarding policy on the school website where we also have information about British Values and spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. A useful link is: http://www.Itai.info/what-is-prevent

Government Prevent Strategy https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/97976/prevent-strategy-review.pdf

Sandwell Guidance – https://www.sandwellcsp.org.uk/key-safeguarding-issues/exploitation-2/prevent/