A government-commissioned review into antisemitism in England’s schools and colleges has formally opened a nationwide call for evidence, as concerns grow over a sharp rise in incidents
affecting Jewish students.
The independent inquiry, led by Sir David Bell, is seeking testimony from pupils, parents, teachers, and education professionals who have either experienced or witnessed antisemitism in educational settings. The evidence gathered will inform recommendations aimed at strengthening protections and improving how institutions respond to hate incidents.
The review was commissioned earlier this year by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, who has tasked the inquiry with examining how effectively schools and colleges prevent, identify, and address antisemitism. It will also assess whether staff are adequately supported and trained to deal with such cases.
The move comes against a troubling national backdrop. According to the Community Security Trust, 204 antisemitic incidents linked to schools were recorded in 2025—roughly double the levels typically seen before 2023. The figures reflect a broader surge in antisemitism across the UK in recent years, with Jewish communities reporting increased harassment both online and in public spaces.
More widely, antisemitism in the UK has been a persistent concern, with spikes often linked to geopolitical tensions, misinformation, and the spread of extremist narratives on social media. Education settings have become a particular focus, as they play a critical role in shaping attitudes and fostering inclusion among young people.
Phillipson described the rise in incidents as “abhorrent,” stressing that no child should feel unsafe because of their identity. She urged those with relevant experiences to come forward, emphasizing that firsthand accounts will be central to shaping the government’s response.
Sir David Bell echoed that message, noting that antisemitism continues to manifest in both overt and subtle ways within schools. He said a clearer understanding of the issue is essential to ensure that institutions are equipped to respond effectively.
The review will explore not only internal school policies but also the influence of external organisations and the role of inspectorates in monitoring standards. It forms part of a broader government strategy to strengthen social cohesion and tackle prejudice across British society.
Alongside the review, the government has pledged £7 million to improve training and resources for schools, colleges, and universities, aiming to better equip staff to address antisemitism and other forms of hate.
The call for evidence is open for nine weeks and will close on 30 June 2026. Submissions are invited from a wide range of contributors, including educators, students, local authorities, charities, and researchers. Findings from the review are expected to be published in autumn 2026. Photo by Quinn Dombrowski from Berkeley, USA, Wikimedia commons.
