Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has written to headteachers across the UK to warn about rising antisemitism in schools and the legal requirement of staff to remain politically impartial. 
 
The news comes as several pro-Palestine protests have taken place within and directly outside of school grounds across the country this month.
 
Some Jewish pupils and parents have reported feeling threatened and unsafe in the face of such demonstrations.
 
In a letter addressed to headteachers and school leaders, Mr Williamson says: “Antisemitism is racism. It is abhorrent and, like other forms of racism, has no place in our schools.
 
“Schools should ensure that political expression by senior pupils is conducted sensitively, avoiding disruption for other pupils and staff.
 
“It is unacceptable to allow some pupils to create an atmosphere of intimidation or fear for other students and teachers.”
 
Mr Williamson also emphasised that “schools should not work with or use materials from organisations that publicly reject Israel’s right to exist.”

Responding to the letter, which was written today, the JLC thanked the government for its support.

In a separate letter sent today, addressed to Board of Deputies President Marie Van der Zyl, Mr Williamson also said that the Department of Education was committed to taking a “strong stand against antisemitism in all its forms”.
 
The letter also said the Department would work to ensure Regional School Commissioners are aware of serious concerns of bias and antisemitism at specific schools, and will relay these concerns to Ofsted.