UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI) has welcomed changes made by The Grammar School at Leeds to a Year 7 Religious Studies resource after concerns were raised about historical accuracy and the potential impact on Jewish pupils.

Earlier this month, UKLFI wrote to the school regarding a slide pack entitled “Life at the Time of Jesus”, which was being used in lessons. Parents had also expressed their concerns.  UKLFI highlighted a number of issues, including the repeated use of the term “Palestine” to describe the region during the first century, simplified portrayals of certain Jewish groups such as the Pharisees, and the framing of Jewish tax collectors and Zealots in ways that risked reinforcing longstanding stereotypes.

UKLFI’s letter explained that, although no offence was believed to have been intended, aspects of the material were historically imprecise and could inadvertently contribute to a hostile or uncomfortable environment for Jewish pupils and families. UKLFI also referenced schools’ obligations under education law, equality legislation and government guidance on political impartiality.

In his response, the Principal and CEO confirmed that the resource had been reviewed and amended by subject specialists within the school’s Religious Studies department.

UKLFI has welcomed this confirmation, noting that the school acted constructively and professionally once the concerns were brought to its attention.  Several parents had also raised concerns about these resources.

UKLFI emphasised that ensuring historical accuracy and balanced presentation in teaching materials is particularly important at a time of heightened sensitivity around Jewish identity and antisemitism.

A spokesperson for UKLFI said:

“We are pleased that the school has taken the parents’ concerns seriously and arranged for the material to be reviewed and amended by subject specialists. Accurate and balanced teaching about Jewish history and the historical context of Jesus is essential, both educationally and in ensuring that Jewish pupils feel respected and included. We appreciate the school’s prompt and responsible engagement.”

UKLFI emphasised that its aim in raising the matter was not to criticise the school, but to ensure that educational resources meet high standards of historical scholarship and sensitivity.