Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has encouraged Jewish children to return to school next term in a video message organised through the Board of Deputies.

It was understandable that some might be nervous about the prospect, he said.

“But your school will be working really hard to prepare for your return and be taking all steps necessary to keep you and your classmates safe.”

It was really important to return to school, he said. “It is the best place for you to be.”

The government wants all year groups to be back in class in the new school year.

The video was arranged to mark Sunday’s anniversary of the election of the first Jewish MP Lionel de Rothschild in 1847.

As Mr Williamson recalled, he was unable to take his seat because MPs had to profess allegiance to Christianity and it took another 11 years before he could actually enter Parliament.

He “changed British history by tackling discrimination and promoting diversity,” the minister said.