TEACHERS in East Lancashire are being urged to watch out for increased tension between pupils from different ethnic and religious groups as military action looms following the terrorist attacks on America.

And a teachers' leader warned that his ethnic minority colleagues might also be particularly vulnerable -- both from pupils and parents.

Simon Jones, divisional secretary for the Blackburn with Darwen branch of the National Union of Teachers, said that pupils and teachers, particularly those from ethnic minority groups, must be protected from the abuse and threats which could arise out of ignorance and prejudice.

"The best way to deal with such problems is to bring them out in the open, to discuss them and ensure that all involved understand that racism is not acceptable.

"The Prime Minister has made it clear that the campaign is against terrorism, not Islam," he added.

"Each member of our community has the right to be treated with respect and without any apprehension for their own safety and well-being because of their membership of a particular ethnic minority grouping or religion."

Mr Jones said that the greatest threat came from negative and stereotyped views of Islam and Muslims.

Teachers should be especially vigilant for signs of name calling, abuse and bullying, particularly of Muslim pupils, and any signs of tension between pupils from different ethnic groups.

"Early recognition and intervention by teachers will help diffuse the situation before it escalates, " he added.

He said the NUT was stressing that no attempt should be made to take a politically partisan approach or one which belittled a particular set of opinions

"It is vitally important that schools enable pupils to understand that fundamentalism, fanaticism and terrorism can and do exist within all religions," said Mr Jones.

And schools should reiterate to teachers, pupils and parents their rejection of racial harassment.

Any racist or religious taunting should be firmly and sensitively dealt with by teachers immediately.

"Some pupils may need individual counselling, particularly the targets and the perpetrators of racial harassment.

"Pupils' factual knowledge and understanding of events can be improved through the curriculum.

"World studies and education about world faiths could provide opportunities for information and discussion at both primary and secondary levels.

"The aim must be to ensure that every child feels valued and secure and that school is a safe place to explore differences and conflicting views.

" Above all, prejudice should be countered and replaced with information, and respect should be fostered throughout the school."