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Campaigners against unregulated schools back clampdown in Queen’s Speech
Children will be better protected and receive a more fully rounded education, following pressure from project Nahamu
Charedim. (Photo by Kish Kim / Sipa USA)
Scores of unregulated Charedi schools could be shut down if the government sticks to its word on on a clampdown.
Their management could also be prosecuted if mooted legislation goes ahead to ensure pupils are protected and get a fully rounded education.
The Queen’s Speech on Tuesday contained a vow to ensure schools which are not registered and inspected regularly can be closed.
The potential legislation has been welcomed by safety campaigners, who say children are at too much risk in unregulated classrooms.
A project created specifically to protect people who want pupils to have access to a secular education as well as a religious one, Nahamu, is backs legislation to ensure children are less likely to be drawn to extremist views.
Nahamu founder Yehudis Fletcher said: “Nahamu strongly supports the Department for Education’s (DfE) proposals to reform the regulation of educational institutions for school aged children in a manner which will include, for the first time, a number of full-time yeshivas, most of which cater for Chassidic boys aged 13 to 16.
“All young people have a right to expect that their places of education will be safe, regulated, and equip them with the skills to participate economically and socially in modern British society.
“Broad and balanced education is key to a sustainable future for Charedi communities.
“Schools must prepare children to live full and autonomous lives, which enable them to contribute, culturally and economically, both to our communities and to the United Kingdom as a whole.“These new policies will need careful implementation. When these proposals become law, it is essential that the DfE works with Charedi communities to ensure that their requirements are not evaded, and that no Charedi child is left behind.”
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