The union feels guidelines from the DIUS could create further divisions in society.
According to the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL), plans for FE staff to watch for potential terrorists in their colleges risk creating tension between students and staff.
The proposals, from the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills, focus on the role of further education providers to promote community cohesion, prevent violent extremism and foster shared values. It states FE staff should keep a lookout for students with an interest in Al Qa’ida, and monitor students’ use of external speakers and internet activities.
However, the ATL believes this move gives an excessive emphasis on the prevention of violent extremism, rather than on promoting shared values and community cohesion.
The general secretary of the ATL, Dr Mary Bousted, said: “The Government has put the cart before the horse. Rather than supporting colleges that attract students from a wide range of backgrounds to help these students live and learn together, the Government has put an emphasis on preventing terrorism in a way which could create further divisions in society. These proposals could lead to a break down in trust between students and colleges, and do more damage than good.”
Of particular worry to the union is the presumption that Muslim and other faith groups are predisposed towards violence, which could reinforce stereotypes and prejudices. The ATL is also concerned that the threat of violent extremism by right-wing and non-faith based groups is ignored in the DIUS consultation.
The ATL requests the Government removes tackling terrorism from its guidance for FE colleges, as it believes this should be dealt with under UK law instead. However, the union feels proposals to tackle violence towards minority groups such as gays, lesbians, bisexuals or transgender people should be included to deal with incitement to violence. It suggests strong anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies should be added, rather than a code of practice on freedom of speech. Additionally, the ATL believes the guidance should address prejudice and stereotyping among mainstream society.
Dr Bousted added: “We have major concerns about the Government’s expectation that colleges and schools can solve fundamental problems in society. It is unrealistic and unreasonable to expect FE colleges to tackle alienation and dissatisfaction among young people alone when many of the causes are outside the influence of the colleges.”
She continued: “We would like to see more emphasis on encouraging pupils to get involved in democratic processes such as how their colleges are run and what is taught as a way to achieve community cohesion within colleges and in the wider community.”
ATL has commended the good intentions and integrity embodied in the aims of the Department’s consultation document, but asks for greater clarification in terms of concepts, definitions and scope of the consultation.
By Jason Rainbow
