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Ofsted has launched an inspection into Bristol Brunel Academy following concerns that the school may have been pressured into cancelling a visit from Damien Egan, a Jewish Member of Parliament. The visit, initially scheduled for September, was postponed by the school due to concerns about student safety amid plans for a pro-Palestine demonstration on the same day. Bristol Brunel Academy cited safeguarding reasons for delaying the event.
Sir Martyn Oliver, the chief inspector of Ofsted, expressed serious concerns about the implications of this decision, particularly the message it might send to children from the Jewish community. He confirmed that the criteria for conducting an inspection had been met in this case. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson also condemned the postponement, labeling it as “completely unacceptable” and emphasizing that MPs should never be prevented from carrying out their duties because of their religion or background.
The Cabot Learning Federation (CLF), which oversees the academy, stated that the decision to postpone the visit followed advice from police due to the planned Bristol Palestine Solidarity Campaign protest. A spokesperson from the school affirmed their commitment to educating students about British values, noting that the invitation to Egan was part of this effort. By the time news of the postponement was reported, arrangements had been made to reschedule the MP’s visit. Damien Egan represents Bristol North East and is affiliated with the Labour Friends of Israel parliamentary group.
Sir Martyn Oliver expressed his dismay at the possibility that the school had been intimidated into cancelling the visit. He highlighted the professional and moral obligation educators have to oppose discrimination. Following the announcement of the inspection, Ofsted inspectors conducted a visit to the school. Meanwhile, Bridget Phillipson welcomed the investigation and indicated she might consider further action based on Ofsted’s findings. The CLF is also looking into allegations that one of its inclusion and diversity coordinators shared discriminatory comments on social media. The Federation reiterated its commitment to promoting inclusion and enforcing a strict code of conduct for staff, including potential disciplinary actions and an external review of staff training
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