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Written question asked by Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party) on Monday, 7 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 9 September 2026. It was answered by Paul Waugh (Labour) on Tuesday, 15 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Children: Religious Hatred

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps she is taking with the Minister for Women and Equalities to ensure children are taught that religious hatred is wrong from a young age.

Answer

Education is a devolved matter, and the response outlines the information for England only.

Every school should actively promote the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance for those of different faiths and beliefs. Promotion of these values plays an important role in preparing children and young people for life in a modern and diverse Britain.

Citizenship education equips young people to understand their place in the wider world and provides an important platform for discussions about global events and how they affect them and their communities. Religious education can also help pupils develop an understanding of different faiths and beliefs. Schools should promote critical thinking, logical reasoning and empathy, building children’s resilience to all forms of hatred, including antisemitism and anti-Muslim hostility.

The department has funded £7 million to tackle antisemitism in schools, colleges and universities, including £1 million for an innovation fund supporting projects that improve media literacy, tackle misinformation and promote tolerant debate. We also provide guidance and resources through the department’s Educate Against Hate website.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
27452
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Education Children Religious hatred
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk