LONDON, March 4 (Reuters) - Britain's government on Wednesday launched an independent review into antisemitism in England's schools and colleges, responding to data showing classroom-related incidents
Britain Begins Independent Review After Sharp Rise in School Antisemitism
Government Response to Rising Antisemitism in Schools
Background and Recent Trends
LONDON, March 4 (Reuters) - Britain's government on Wednesday launched an independent review into antisemitism in England's schools and colleges, responding to data showing classroom-related incidents have doubled since before Hamas' October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel.
Attacks on Jews have risen globally since Hamas' assault on Israel, which triggered the Gaza war. Britain reported a 4% annual increase in cases of antisemitism in 2025 - the second-highest total on record - including a sharp spike after a deadly synagogue attack in northern England in October.
Statistics on School-Related Incidents
The Community Security Trust, which advises Jewish communities on security, recorded 204 school-related antisemitic incidents in 2025, twice pre-2023 levels.
Official Statements and Reactions
Education Minister's Response
"The figures are stark and clear," education minister Bridget Phillipson said in a statement.
She added that "too many Jewish teachers who raised concerns felt that nothing was done. That is not acceptable."
Scope and Objectives of the Independent Review
Purpose of the Review
The government said the aim of the review was to assess how well education settings identify, prevent and respond to antisemitic behaviour, and where further support was needed.
Areas of Examination
Policies and Incident Handling
The review will examine schools' policies, how incidents are handled when they occur, what preventive measures are in place, and how external factors – including protests outside schools and wider geopolitical tensions - influence behaviour within education settings.
(Reporting by Sam Tabahriti; Editing by Kate Holton)
