Schools in Sheffield have introduced teaching materials that assert black people cannot be racist towards white people, part of a broader effort to address prejudice and systemic inequality. The lesson plans, designed for students from primary through secondary levels, explain that racism is defined as racial prejudice combined with power, which the materials say is held by white people in the UK due to their cultural dominance.

The guidance, developed by an education alliance led by Notre Dame High School, aims to equip students and teachers with tools to challenge societal inequalities. For younger children aged seven to 11, lessons focus on fostering empathy and raising awareness of white privilege, defined as advantages white individuals may experience due to systemic factors. The curriculum encourages those recognized as privileged to take responsibility in combating racism by monitoring language, challenging discriminatory behavior, reporting incidents, and supporting affected individuals.

For older students, the materials clarify that while black people may exhibit racial prejudice toward white individuals, this does not constitute racism under the framework presented. The guidance emphasizes the distinction, stating that racism involves a combination of prejudice and cultural power, which, according to the lessons, is predominantly held by white people in Britain.

The approach has drawn criticism from some political figures. Laura Trott, the Shadow Education Secretary, expressed concern that exposing children as young as seven to identity-focused politics could foster division rather than unity. She argued that the materials encourage viewing individuals primarily through the prism of race and present contested concepts like white privilege as established fact, potentially deepening social fractures.

Neil O’Brien, the Shadow Minister for Policy Renewal and Development, described the program as “political indoctrination” and indicated plans to address such curricula through enforcement of educational standards.

The education alliance behind the guidance acknowledges the lesson plans are an initial step toward addressing systemic racism and emphasized their intent to promote social justice values within schools. Notre Dame High School, designated by the government to lead teacher training in the region, has been contacted for further comment.