We were sad to read about the abuse faced by the staff of Parkfield school, and Andrew Moffat in particular (Why has Parkfield’s top teacher been silenced?, 2 April). He has done remarkable work, which until the recent protests had been accepted by Muslim parents because he worked closely with them and explained what he has been doing. It seems that a few parents have caused the situation to escalate beyond reason. The materials used are gentle and child-friendly, telling beautiful stories of acceptance. The protesting parents must either not have seen them or be determined to oppose the teaching whatever the evidence.
It is important to point out that not all religious communities oppose the acceptance of same-sex relationships. Liberal Judaism has been at the forefront of the campaign for equal marriage, and many Christians and churches are journeying towards equal marriage. Both the Progressive Synagogue in Birmingham and the Church at Carrs Lane, which we represent, are inclusive and affirming. Compassion and understanding should be at the heart of all religious teaching; it saddens us that this has been so absent in the recent debates.
Rabbi Margaret Jacobi
Birmingham Progressive Synagogue
Ruth Yorke Methodist minister, Birmingham
• Your article illustrates the pusillanimous response that the Department for Education makes whenever a controversial issue arises that needs, on the one hand, rapid rebuttal of demonstrably false allegations and, on the other, strong affirmation and support for school staff subjected to unwarranted and false accusations about their teaching and their motives. It should not be left to Andrew Moffat alone to justify and explain what No Outsiders is, and how it is delivered. Stopping the lessons and forbidding those at the sharp end of debate to engage with the media allows the voices of the misled to predominate, and permits those who are intolerant to spread falsehoods unchecked.
Rev Stephen Terry
Chair, Accord Coalition for Inclusive Education
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