Local councils across northern England have issued a stark warning to schools, stating that children's drawings could be considered blasphemous, while music and dance lessons might contravene the teachings of Islam. This guidance forms part of a publication designed to enhance sensitivity and awareness around diverse faiths and beliefs in educational settings.
Publication Aims to Foster Religious Sensitivity
The document, titled 'Sharing The Journey', has been specifically crafted to assist schools in demonstrating a sensitive and positive approach to religious and cultural diversity for pupils, parents, and carers. It emphasises that schools should aim to be flexible in catering for religious differences, highlighting the need for awareness of various sensitivities.
Specific Concerns Around Art and Imagery
According to the guidance, Islamic culture boasts a rich artistic tradition, but there are notable religious exceptions that schools must consider. The publication explicitly warns that three-dimensional imagery of humans is viewed as idolatrous by some Muslims. It stresses the importance of schools understanding this and being cautious not to ask students to reproduce images of Jesus, Prophet Mohammed, or other figures regarded as prophets in Islam.
The guidelines reiterate that children's drawings could be deemed blasphemous, and some Muslim pupils may prefer not to draw the human figure altogether. This advice has been distributed to several schools, including those within the Kirklees local authority, where Batley Grammar School is located. This follows a 2021 incident where a religious studies teacher was suspended and forced into hiding after showing pupils a cartoon of the Prophet Mohammed, sparking significant controversy.
Music and Dance Lessons Under Scrutiny
The guidance also addresses the teaching of music, noting that in Islam, music is traditionally limited to the human voice and non-tuneable percussion instruments, as used historically in marriage ceremonies and on battlefields. It acknowledges a diversity of opinion among Muslims regarding music but advises schools to ensure students are not asked to participate in songs that conflict with their religious beliefs.
For drama and dance lessons, teachers are urged to be mindful not to assign roles that might compromise a student's faith. Additionally, there may be reservations about physical contact between males and females or performances that could encourage immodesty or sexual feelings, requiring careful consideration in lesson planning.
Broader Religious Sensitivities Highlighted
The booklet does not focus solely on Islamic concerns; it also flags other religious sensitivities. These include dietary requirements for Jews, Hindus, Sikhs, Rastafarians, Mormons, and Jehovah's Witnesses, as well as stipulations around fasting practices. This comprehensive approach aims to create an inclusive environment that respects a wide array of faith-based needs.
Origins and Distribution of the Guidance
This advice was initially issued in 2022 by councils in Leeds, Calderdale, Oldham, and Wakefield. It has since been shared by various local authorities, including Tameside in Greater Manchester and Sefton in Lancashire, indicating a coordinated effort to promote religious awareness across the region. The publication serves as a resource to help schools navigate the complexities of faith in education while fostering a respectful and accommodating atmosphere for all students.
