An alleged Islamist plot to infiltrate Birmingham schools has spread to other cities in Britain, fear headteachers.
The National Association of Head Teachers claims it has found “concerted efforts” to infiltrate at least six schools in Birmingham – and the union also alleges that the scandal now has “connections” to other large cities.
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The news comes after a series of allegations that a conspiracy in Birmingham – known as the ‘Trojan Horse’ plot – has seen schools pressured illegally to segregate classrooms and change teaching to reflect radical Islamic beliefs.
Speaking of the Birmingham schools, the head teachers’ association claims there has been pressure to “alter their character in line with the Islamic faith”, including the sidelining elements of the curriculum and attempts to enforce the appointment of Muslim staff.
General secretary Russell Hobby warns that the plot is unlikely to be “limited to Birmingham”. He adds: “I think it is connected into the large cities around the country.”
Last week it was revealed that Tahir Alam, the alleged ringleader of the plot and chairman of governors at the Park View school in Birmingham, compiled a detailed blueprint for the “Islamisation” of state schools in 2007.
Ofsted, the official body for inspecting schools, is now investigating 21 schools in Birmingham.