Schools using 'anti-radicalisation software' to monitor pupils

In response to the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, which will come into force 1 July and requires that schools “prevent pupils being drawn into terrorism”, schools are turning to ‘anti terrorism software’ to monitor pupil’s internet use.

Several companies are producing software designed to monitor pupil’s internet activity and flag up extremism related language. One company named Impero has already launched a pilot of its software in areas including London, County Durham, Essex, Leicestershire, Warwickshire, Yorkshire and Staffordshire.

The software has a glossary of trigger words linked to extremism and allows teachers to store screenshots of anything flagged as a concern.

A spokeswoman from Impero has said that the software “is not about criminalising children” but instead “helping schools spot the early warning signs” so that support can be put in place to “help educate children before they potentially become victims of radicalisation”.

Education consultant Bill Bolloten, who provides training to schools in this area, has questioned anti-extremism approaches in schools, he said: “There are growing concerns that many schools are failing to understand what is required under the new act. The prevent duty requires them to respond in ways that are proportionate and appropriate, based on an assessment of genuine risks that children might face in relation to extremism.

“Workshops for parents on extremism, as well as other activities such as radicalisation questionnaires for children and software that spies on pupils’ internet activity in school, are based on the discredited idea that there are signs of extremism that can be detected in young children.

“These actions are alarming many parents and may compound a growing climate of mistrust. Schools should reflect and reconsider if these approaches are potentially counter-productive and might damage relationships with the communities they serve.”