Words, not wars, the best way to peace

THE FRIDAY THING: 

I WOULD never have expected it, but it seems schools in Oldham are putting counter-terrorism plans in place that should mean our kids get home from school in one piece.

Oldham NUT is nonetheless worried that in some parts of the country it could lead to debate being stifled, because some pupils will be scared to express their views for fear of “being reported”.

It’s a sorry state of affairs but extremism, it seems, knows no boundaries. Teachers are well placed to respond to all kinds of spoken and written thoughts that might just, accidentally or deliberately, put controversial ideas in front of pupils.

We don’t want classrooms full of apprehension among pupils fearful of making a point or putting forward an argument that is maybe seen as extreme and dangerous - or might simply concern pupils from minority communities.

Above all else it is important that terrorism is challenged in debate and discussion. Words, not wars, are the best way to keep the peace for school pupils and for people in communities and of different faiths. It is a challenge for us all but, together, we can learn to live with it - and our neighbours.