Headmaster's Bulletin (41)

Like me, I am sure that you have been shocked and horrified by the appalling atrocities perpetrated recently not only in Paris but in other parts of the world – perpetrated by extremist terrorists in the name of Islam.

I am sad to see the anti-Islamic sentiment that has arisen in some parts of Europe, and disturbed by the persecution of Christians in the Middle East – where they have generally lived harmoniously with their Jewish and Muslim neighbours. At the same time, I derive some reassurance and faith in the goodness of humanity from the solidarity expressed by those of all faiths in their marches in France last Sunday.

We are, at Bablake, a community of many faiths and none, and our lives are undoubtedly enriched by our diverse beliefs. We have much to learn from our differences, and we grow as individuals and together through understanding, mutual support, inclusivity and tolerance.

We are currently beginning to look more creatively and cohesively at the ways in which we live out the values of peace and reconciliation in our school and in the wider world. We were, last year, awarded International Cross of Nails status, and this reflects some of our work in the community, through charity, through international links (Harrismith School in South Africa), our visits to Beth Shalom (the Holocaust Centre) and our support of justice through Amnesty International. We want pupils not only to be at peace with themselves but also to bring peace and reconciliation to those around them and to the wider community. We are drafting a statement of values, which includes the line “We seek to promote mutual support and understanding which transcends boundaries of faith, culture, race and gender” and which ends thus: “In making this commitment, we believe that each of us can play a significant part in bringing peace and reconciliation to our world.” We can.