A SCOTTISH school’s headteacher has apologised after suggesting in a letter to parents that the Union flag equated to “potentially offensive or sectarian messaging”.
The primary in East Renfrewshire – which The National has decided not to name due to recent sectarian violence targeting another school in the area – had been the focus of anger from Scottish Tory politicians after a letter from the head was shared online.
Confirmed as genuine by the local council, the letter said: “Thank you for coming along last night to make the P7 leavers a special event in the life of the school. The children looked fantastic and had a great time.
“Unfortunately the use of the Union flag with staff images on caused some upset at the beginning of the evening.
“As a school we promote inclusion and acceptance, actively working against potentially offensive or sectarian messaging. Although we recognise this was not the intent we are concerned that others within or beyond the school community may consider that this is something we would encourage.
“I have spoken with the children about it this morning explaining why it wasn’t a good idea:
- Using images without permission
- The symbolism and association of flags and symbols to different groups of people
- Their actions which were contrary to the school values of respect and kindness
“I hope this helps everyone understand where mistakes have been made and we can move on enjoying the rest of the end of term celebrations.”
Jackson Carlaw, the Tory MSP for Eastwood, said that to “equate the Union Flag with sectarianism is totally unacceptable and deeply offensive”.
He said he expected an “urgent response, resolution, and retraction” from the council, including an “unconditional apology”.
“Our national flag is not up for debate – it is a symbol of our tradition, unity as a nation and hope for so many,” Carlaw added.
Later on Monday, East Renfrewshire Council issued a statement in which both the council and the headteacher apologised.
A spokesperson for East Renfrewshire Council said: “It was not the school’s intention to imply the Union flag is sectarian and both the headteacher and the council apologises for any offence and upset that has been caused to pupils, parents and carers and the wider community.
“All educational establishments in East Renfrewshire should be spaces that are focused on learning, unity, and pride in a diverse British society.
“We expect our schools to foster an ethos of respect for diverse perspectives and national identity.”
The news comes after the nearby St Joseph's Primary School, in Busby, was hit by sectarian attacks which saw children’s play areas set on fire in two separate arson incidents.
First Minister John Swinney joined Carlaw in a visit to the primary in April in a show of solidarity, condemning the "mindless acts of bigotry and vandalism".
