Charedi schools have increasingly experienced problems from Ofsted inspectors who believe they should mention same-sex relationships in class as part of teaching “British values” of respect and tolerance for others.
But many of the schools argue that they do not address issues of sexuality at all in the classroom.
The rabbinic authorities for Chinuch UK, which represent strictly Orthodox communities in London, Gateshead and Manchester, are grappling with the issue of how to reconcile their religious ethos with the requirements of the secular inspectorate.
A series of briefings for school leaders is planned for after the festivals.
While the situation regarding education was “precarious”, the memo said many “constructive” discussions had taken place with Ofsted and the Department for Education.
While discussions were “difficult”, Chinuch UK remained hopeful of an outcome that would allow schools to continue operating according to their religious values and “within the law”.
