Government launches independent antisemitism review into schools and colleges in England

Led by Sir David Bell, appointed by the Education Secretary due to his “extensive public sector experience of schools and colleges at the highest level”, the independent review will examine how well schools and colleges are supported to handle incidents of antisemitism, including through their own policies and relevant government guidance.

The review comes as data continues to paint what the Government describes as an “alarming picture” of antisemitism in education.

A report by the Community Security Trust (CST) recorded 204 school related antisemitic incidents in 2025 – double the levels typically seen before 2023. 

Meanwhile, more than a fifth of British Jewish parents reported that their children had experienced antisemitism at school, on their way to school, or in the school’s vicinity.

The Department for Education (DfE) said: “[The review] will look at what processes are in place when incidents are not handled well, what schools and colleges are doing to prevent antisemitism in the first place, and the role of external campaigning organisations in influencing institutional decision-making.

“It will also look at how external factors, from protests outside school gates to wider geopolitical events, can contribute to antisemitism within educational settings.”

The review will cover all schools and colleges in England, including maintained schools, academies, special schools, independent schools, further education colleges and sixth form colleges, the DfE revealed.

A call for evidence and programme of engagement will be launched in Spring 2026, hearing from school and college leaders, community groups and religious representatives.

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.”

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.”

Lottie Winson