TEACHERS have voiced an appeal for schools to remain safe spaces for children to discuss sensitive issues such as extremism.

The National Union of Teachers (NUT), which represents hundreds of teachers in East Lancashire, debated a motion on the subject at its annual conference in Harrogate, which included a warning that school staff are increasingly uncertain about engaging, or allowing young people to discuss certain issues, for fear that they will have to report them.

A move to require schools to promote fundamental British values as well as the government’s Prevent strategy, which is aimed at tackling extremism, was met with concerns by delegates.

The strategy suggests school staff can help to identify and refer youngsters whose behaviour suggests that they are being drawn into extremism or terrorism.

Speaking ahead of the debate, Simon Jones, who represents Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen for the NUT, said: “There is a need to be keeping a safe space for that discussion so that the children themselves don’t feel that they’re putting themselves at risk by wanting to discuss ideas and so that teachers do not feel they have to shut off conversations.”

“When the attacks on the Charlie Hebdo journalists occurred, there were, in some London schools, Muslim pupils who went into school who did not feel they could say, ‘I was offended by those cartoons.’”

“It’s the idea that someone is prevented from saying ‘I was offended by that’ because that might target them as a potential terrorist.”

He added if there are concerns about a child, or an idea they are putting forward, it should be treated as a child protection issue.

A Conservative spokesman said: “The battle against extremism begins at school where young people learn to be active, resilient and tolerant citizens, ready to seize the rich opportunities of modern Britain.

“Teaching about the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and tolerance and respect for others is part of our promotion of British values and is at the heart of what every school has to deliver for children.

“We want all schools to promote these values throughout the curriculum, not just as a bulwark against extremism, but as a vital part of preparing young people to get on in life.”