Jewish pupils across England are reportedly experiencing a growing rise in anti-Semitic bullying, with incidents including Nazi salutes, threatening language, and offensive graffiti, according to a recent dossier compiled by Parents Against Anti-Semitism (PAA). The group has documented over 100 cases involving both students and teachers, highlighting concerns that schools are failing to adequately address the issue.

The report describes a pattern of anti-Jewish hostility that pupils face routinely, undermining their trust in educators and school authorities to protect them. One mother recounted an incident in a drama class where her son, the only Jewish pupil, was surrounded by peers performing the Nazi salute—a gesture which later recurred in the playground. The school’s class Snapchat group name was also changed to an explicitly offensive phrase, while voice notes circulated falsely accusing the boy of being a pedophile because of his Jewish identity. Feeling unsupported after complaints went unaddressed, the family ultimately pulled the boy from the school.

Another parent described similar experiences involving her children at a London secondary school, where they were subjected to hostile chants, including repeated shouts of “Jew, Jew” and derogatory remarks targeting Israel. Swastikas appeared on school walls, and a student reportedly stated in class that “Jewish blood is toxic.” In one classroom incident, a teacher showed a photo of Israeli hostages being released, dismissing reports of mistreatment by Hamas as “Israeli propaganda.” While the teacher was reportedly reprimanded, they remained in their position.

The same mother also reported that two female pupils were suspended and questioned by police after threatening to “send our family to behead yours, like Jews deserve.” However, no further disciplinary measures were taken against the students. She voiced alarm over what she described as “a very clear line being crossed” by both pupils and staff, emphasizing the entrenched nature of anti-Semitism in schools.

The dossier has been submitted to the UK Government’s independent review on antisemitism in schools and colleges, which aims to assess the scale of the problem and recommend solutions. A spokesperson for the Department for Education reiterated that anti-Semitism has no place in schools or society and emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring safety and respect for all students and staff. They also noted that Holocaust education is being made compulsory across the education system to foster understanding and challenge prejudice.