Key facts
- Headteachers of Jewish schools are spending more time on security than on educational matters, according to a government-commissioned review.
- Some headteachers report dedicating up to 90% of their time to security-related issues.
- Jewish pupils and staff are experiencing regular harassment and abuse, described as a crisis not faced by other communities.
- The review, led by Sir David Bell, is expected to recommend enhanced antisemitism education and teacher training.
- Antisemitic incidents in schools have seen a significant increase, with a 59% rise reported in the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year.
Headteachers of Jewish schools are increasingly dedicating more time to security arrangements than to educational priorities due to rising antisemitism, according to a government-commissioned review. Sir David Bell, who is leading the independent review, stated that security has become an overwhelming concern for many school leaders, with some reporting that approximately 90% of their time is spent on security-related matters.
The review, which examines the experiences of Jewish pupils and staff across various educational settings in England, has found that young people are facing a "crisis" of regular harassment and abuse. Evidence gathered from pupils, teachers, governors, parents, and a survey of 5,000 children indicates that about 20% have experienced or observed antisemitic behaviour in schools and colleges.
Recent figures from the Community Security Trust show a significant spike in antisemitic incidents in schools, with a 59% increase recorded in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. This has led to concerns about the safety of pupils, with some headteachers describing daily decisions about ensuring children's safety as a primary focus, preventing them from working on educational improvements.
Sir David Bell is likely to recommend standardized reporting of antisemitic incidents and dedicated training for teachers, alongside improved education for pupils. Jonathan Frisher, a student who provided evidence to the review, shared his personal experiences of antisemitic bullying and is campaigning for compulsory antisemitism education. Education Secretary Lucy Powell has acknowledged the review's importance and pledged to consider its conclusions to combat antisemitism in educational institutions.