// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
Antisemitism towards Jewish children 'shocking', government expert tells BBC
Antisemitism in schools reached the highest level ever recorded this year
Headteachers of some Jewish schools are spending more of their time dealing with security arrangements than on educational matters, a review into antisemitism in schools and colleges has found.
Sir David Bell, speaking for the first time about his ongoing government-commissioned independent review, told the BBC he had been struck by how many leaders of Jewish faith schools had told him security was their main concern - and that "sometimes education takes second place to that".
The extent of antisemitism directed at children and young people was "shocking" he said.
The report, due this autumn, examines experiences of Jewish pupils and staff in faith and secular schools and colleges in England.
Sir David said he found that pupils were "subject to regular harassment and abuse".
He said Jewish children and young people "are facing a pressure - and indeed one might say even a crisis - that is not the experience of other communities in this country".
The review is likely to recommend dedicated training for all teachers and improved education about antisemitism for pupils, the BBC has been told.
The BBC has spoken to several headteachers and staff at Jewish schools. All asked not to be named because of concerns over their security and that of their schools.
One headteacher said: "In recent years [security] has become an overwhelming priority and increased a significant amount. There have been weeks where approximately 90% of my time has been spent on security-related matters.