A ROW has erupted around a Scottish primary school after its headteacher suggested that the Union flag was linked to “potentially offensive or sectarian messaging”.
Scottish Tory MSPs Jackson Carlaw and Russell Findlay were among those to express anger at the headteacher’s letter after it was shared online over the weekend.
In it, the head of the East Renfrewshire primary – which The National has decided not to name due to recent sectarian violence targeting another school in the area – said to families of P7 leavers that the use of a Union flag in images may have been a “mistake”.
They wrote: “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.”
East Renfrewshire Council confirmed that the letter is genuine.
Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay shared it online, writing: “This is what happens when the SNP’s toxic nationalism infects schools and councils. Our country’s flag is NOT ‘offensive or sectarian’.”
And Carlaw, a former Scottish Tory leader, said: “Let me be clear – to equate the Union Flag with sectarianism is totally unacceptable and deeply offensive to people both locally and across Scotland.
“As a start, the council must issue 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.”
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".
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.”
