Government launches review into antisemitism in schools

The government has launched an independent review into how schools and colleges in England identify, respond to and prevent antisemitism.

Part of a wider mission to strengthen social cohesion

The review builds on the £7 million the government has already invested across all education settings. The government has allocated £2.3 million to Palace Yard and the Union of Jewish Students to deliver resources and training for education professionals. It has also created a £1 million innovation fund to introduce practical solutions to tackle antisemitism.

It forms part of the government’s broader mission to strengthen social cohesion across Britain. Its aim is to build communities where people of all backgrounds and faiths can live, work and learn together without fear. 

A call for evidence and programme of engagement is set to be launched in Spring 2026. The government want to hear from school and college leaders, community groups and religious representatives.

Rising levels of antisemitism in education

The review comes as data continues to paint an alarming picture of antisemitism in education. The Community Security Trust recorded 204 school related antisemitic incidents in 2025. This figure is twice what schools typically saw before 2023.

Over a fifth of British Jewish parents also report their children have experienced antisemitism at school, on their way to school, or in the school’s vicinity. This is evidence of a clear need to act now. A NASUWT survey found that 51 per cent of Jewish members experienced antisemitism in the workplace in the past year. More than half of those felt that when they raised concerns, appropriate action was not taken.

The government believe the review will ensure schools and colleges are places where every child and member of staff can learn and work without fear.

Sir David Bell appointed to lead the review

The Education Secretary has appointed Sir David Bell to lead the independent review. She believes his extensive public sector experience of schools and colleges at the highest level will aid him in this investigation.

Education secretary, Bridget Phillipson said:

“As Jewish families across Britain celebrated Purim this week, a festival that speaks to the power of courage over hatred, I am reminded of the cost of staying silent in the face of prejudice

“The figures are stark and clear – school-related antisemitic incidents remain double pre-2023 levels, and too many Jewish teachers who raised concerns felt that nothing was done. That is not acceptable.

“This review will help to ensure schools and colleges have the confidence and support to tackle antisemitism.”

Scope and focus of the review

Sir David Bell’s role is to examine how well schools and colleges are supported to handle incidents of antisemitism, including through their own policies and relevant government guidance. His aim is to report recommendations by Autumn 2026 as part of government’s wider social cohesion drive.

He is expected to examine what processes are currently in place when antisemitic incidents are not handled effectively as well as what schools and colleges are doing to prevent antisemitism in the first place. The proposed review will also consider the role that external campaigning organisations may play in influencing institutional decision‑making.

In addition, it is expected to explore how external factors might contribute to antisemitism within educational settings. This ranges from protests outside school gates to wider geopolitical events.

Sir David Bell said:

“I am pleased to have been asked by the Secretary of State for Education to undertake this vital work. Antisemitism is a scourge and no child or young person or teacher should be subject to it, not least when attending school or college.

“I will come at this review with an open and independent mind.  I will review both policy and practice to ensure that everyone can learn free from prejudice and hate. I am also keen to know more about those institutions who are tacking antisemitism effectively so that lessons can be shared widely across the education system.”

Reactions from the education sector

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

“All pupils deserve to feel safe in school and like they can belong and thrive. There is no place for any kind of prejudice, and it is very concerning that there has been a rise in antisemitic incidents. School leaders will welcome any support in tackling this issue and look forward to working with the Review.”

The review aims to cover all schools and colleges in England. This will include maintained schools, academies, special schools, independent schools, further education colleges and sixth form colleges.

It forms part of the government’s wider commitment to strengthening social cohesion. This includes looking at improving social cohesion and counter extremism across the board, tackling the drivers of hate and prejudice in British society. Combatting antisemitism in education is a vital part of that mission.