UK councils say that school pupils’ drawings could be blasphemous under Islamic law | UK | News
UK councils issue guidelines on religious sensitivity (Image: Getty)
Schools in some parts of the north of England have been told that some pupils’ artwork and classroom activities may be considered blasphemous under Islamic teachings, according to guidance published by various councils. A document titled “Sharing the Journey” was distributed to teachers to help them demonstrate “sensitivity and awareness of faith and beliefs” in the classroom.
It encourages schools to take a flexible approach to religious differences and recognize that some Muslim families may have concerns about elements of subjects such as art, music, drama and physical education. The guide warns that certain forms of imagery may conflict with Islamic beliefs.
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Students were advised not to make drawings that might violate Islamic traditions (Image: Getty)
It is stated that Islamic civilization has a “rich artistic tradition” as well as religious sensitivities that teachers should pay attention to.
“Three-dimensional images of people are considered idolatry by some Muslims,” the guide states.
“It is very important that the school understands this and is careful not to ask its students to reproduce images of Jesus, Muhammad or other figures considered prophets in Islam.
“Some Muslim students may not want to draw human figures.”
The guidance has been distributed to several schools, including schools in the local government area of Kirklees, where Batley Grammar School is located.
In 2021, the school had a religious studies teacher teach students about Prophet Muhammad during class. He was at the center of a huge controversy after he was suspended and forced into hiding after showing a caricature of Muhammad.
The document also includes recommendations for teaching music, noting that traditional Islamic practices generally limit music to the human voice and certain percussion instruments.
The report says there are “differences of opinion about music among Muslims” and that schools should ensure that pupils are not asked to take part in songs that conflict with their religious beliefs.
Teachers are also advised to consider possible sensitivities in drama classes.
The guidance says students should not be asked to play roles that could compromise their faith and that there may be concerns about physical contact between male and female students or performances that are considered sexually suggestive.
The publication also highlights religious aspects for other faith groups.
These include dietary requirements for Jewish, Hindu and Sikh students, as well as guidance on fasting and other religious practices practiced by groups such as Rastafarians, Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses.
According to the Daily Mail, the guidance was first published by councils such as Leeds, Calderdale, Oldham and Wakefield in 2022.
It has since been shared with other local authorities, including Tameside and Sefton.
The aim of the document is to help schools take a “sensitive and positive approach to religious and cultural diversity” for pupils, parents and carers.
