Prevent and Radicalisation

At East Dene Primary School, we are committed to safeguarding children from all forms of harm, including the risk of radicalisation and extremism. Protecting children from these risks is an important part of our wider safeguarding responsibilities.

Prevent is part of the UK Government’s counter-terrorism strategy. Its aim is to safeguard and support vulnerable people who may be at risk of being drawn into extremist ideologies or terrorism. Just like other forms of safeguarding, the focus of Prevent is on identifying concerns early, providing appropriate support and helping to keep children safe.

Radicalisation is the process by which a person comes to support extremist views or ideologies that may lead to harmful or illegal behaviour. Extremism can take many forms and may be linked to political, religious or other beliefs that promote hatred, violence or intolerance.

Children can be exposed to extremist views in a variety of ways, including through social media, online platforms, gaming, peer groups or individuals who seek to manipulate or groom them. As with all forms of exploitation, children who are vulnerable may be at greater risk, which is why education and early intervention are so important.

At East Dene Primary School, we promote a culture of respect, inclusion and belonging. Through our curriculum, assemblies and wider personal development programme, we teach children to think critically, respect different viewpoints, challenge stereotypes and develop the confidence to recognise when something does not feel right. We also promote the fundamental British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.

Our staff receive regular safeguarding and Prevent training to help them recognise the signs that a child may be vulnerable to radicalisation. Any concerns are managed in line with our safeguarding procedures and, where appropriate, support may be sought through the multi-agency Channel programme, which provides early intervention for individuals who may be vulnerable to being drawn into extremism.

If you have any concerns about a child, or would like further information about Prevent, please speak to a member of our Safeguarding Team. By working together with families and partner agencies, we can help ensure that every child feels safe, supported and able to thrive.