British schools in Qatar accused of using textbooks promoting anti-Jewish content

British private schools operating in Qatar are facing mounting criticism after reports that they are using state-approved textbooks that omit the Holocaust and include hostile references to Jews.

An investigation by The Sunday Telegraph found that several prestigious UK schools with overseas branches – including Sherborne School, King’s College Taunton and the Royal Grammar School Guildford – are required under Qatari law to teach certain subjects using government-approved materials.

According to the report, a Year 12 history textbook on the Second World War makes no reference to the Holocaust. Instead, Adolf Hitler’s ideology is described only in vague terms, stating that the Nazi regime “emphasised Hitler’s racist ideas”, while encouraging students to read Mein Kampf.

Separate material used for younger pupils reportedly includes explicitly anti-Jewish passages. One Islamic studies textbook states: “There is no one more evil, or misguided, than one who turns away from Islam,” in reference to Jews.

The findings have prompted strong condemnation from Jewish organisations. The Association of Jewish Refugees (AJR) described the omission of the Holocaust as “morally indefensible” and “an insult” to victims and survivors.

AJR chief executive Michael Newman said: “The Holocaust is intrinsic to learning about Nazism. By omitting this, it is an insult to the memory of victims and their families, and dangerous for future generations.”

The Campaign Against Antisemitism also criticised the use of the materials, warning that the content would be unacceptable in the UK and calling on schools to reconsider their involvement.

Under Qatari regulations, all schools must teach Arabic, Islamic studies and national history using state-sanctioned textbooks designed to reflect the country’s “national identity” and “religious values”. These materials must be provided to all pupils “without exception”.

Despite promoting a “British education” abroad, the schools are therefore required to incorporate elements of the local curriculum that critics say conflict with UK educational standards and values.

Accounts filings cited by The Telegraph suggest the overseas ventures have generated significant income for the UK institutions. Sherborne School has reportedly earned more than £3.7 million from its Qatari branch since 2009, while King’s College Taunton and Royal Grammar School Guildford have also received substantial revenues.

Some schools defended their operations, noting they must comply with local laws while delivering a broader British-style education.

A spokesperson for Royal Grammar School Guildford said its international schools operate “in different legislative contexts that we are required to observe”, adding that it remains “proud” to offer a “broad, holistic British curriculum”.

However, critics argue that continuing to operate under such conditions risks legitimising material that distorts Holocaust history and promotes intolerance.

One teacher who previously worked at a British-linked school in the region told the newspaper that staff were restricted in how they discussed Jewish topics, alleging: “We are not allowed to mention Jews. The genocide didn’t happen to them.”

The controversy raises wider questions about the role of British-branded schools overseas – and whether the export of UK education can be reconciled with local requirements that, in this case, appear to contradict core historical and ethical standards.