The UK government has accepted all 27 recommendations from an independent review examining antisemitism in schools and colleges, according to an announcement made on GOV.UK. The landmark report, led by Sir David Bell, reveals that antisemitism represents a significant and growing challenge across the education sector.
The review uncovered troubling statistics: three in five Jewish pupils aged between 16 and 19 have either experienced or witnessed antisemitic incidents. Jewish pupils, students and staff have reported facing antisemitic abuse, harassment and discrimination in educational settings across England.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson described the findings as a “generational moment,” highlighting the urgent need for action. The review found that whilst antisemitism has ancient roots, it has evolved into contemporary forms—particularly when linked to the Middle East—making it what Sir David described as “unacceptably casual” in its modern manifestations.
New training and guidance for teachers
According to the government’s response published on GOV.UK, teachers and school leaders currently lack clear guidance and a consistent approach for tackling contemporary antisemitism. The new measures aim to provide education professionals with dedicated training, practical resources and the confidence to identify, challenge and prevent antisemitism wherever it occurs.
The government will introduce specialist antisemitism training for education leaders and safeguarding staff. Key guidance documents, including Keeping Children Safe in Education and guidance on political impartiality, will be strengthened to reflect the distinct nature of antisemitism as a form of racism and hatred.
Schools and colleges will be encouraged to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism. New resources will be developed to help staff recognise modern forms of antisemitic behaviour and respond appropriately.
Improved reporting and safeguarding
The response treats antisemitism as a safeguarding issue, recognising that such abuse can significantly impact the safety, wellbeing and participation of Jewish children and young people. The government plans to improve the reporting and recording of antisemitic incidents and will provide enhanced support for schools, colleges and local authorities dealing with complex cases.
Additional guidance will help schools navigate difficult issues relating to political impartiality and discussions about Israel and the Middle East, ensuring that antisemitism is identified and challenged in these contexts.
“Every child and every teacher should be able to go to school or college free from fear,” the Education Secretary said in the government statement. “We have a duty to teach this generation and the next what antisemitism is, why it’s wrong and what happens when it takes hold.”
An implementation group bringing together key stakeholders has been established to drive delivery of the recommendations. Sir David Bell has been commissioned to conduct a one-year review of progress to maintain momentum and ensure commitments are met.
“In leading this review, I have been seized of the urgency in tackling antisemitism in schools and colleges,” Sir David Bell said. “Its modern manifestations are having a pernicious impact in too many places, so it is vital that my recommendations are acted upon and acted upon quickly.”
What this means for Poles in the UK
Polish families with children in English schools and colleges should expect to see new measures rolled out across the education system over the coming months. All schools will receive updated guidance on recognising and challenging antisemitism, regardless of whether they have Jewish pupils or staff. This forms part of teaching British values of tolerance, acceptance and respect.
Parents and teachers will notice strengthened safeguarding procedures and improved training for school leadership. If your child witnesses or experiences any form of discrimination—including antisemitism—schools will have clearer protocols for reporting and addressing incidents. The changes aim to create safer environments for all pupils from minority backgrounds.
For Polish teachers and education professionals working in UK schools, dedicated training on identifying and challenging antisemitism will become available. The government will provide practical resources to help staff navigate sensitive discussions about geopolitical events in a balanced and impartial manner. Further details on implementation timelines and specific training programmes will be published by the Department for Education in due course.