School bans sportswear over racism fears

A secondary school headteacher in England banned pupils from wearing patriotic sports clothing because of fears that they could inflame racist tensions, a local councillor said today.

Students at the Black Country school were instructed not to wear items representing countries or teams during Friday’s non school uniform day.

The one-day ban was introduced after racist graffiti was painted on buildings at The Grange School, Pedmore, Stourbridge, resulting in its closure for 24 hours.

Councillor Angus Adams, lead member for education on Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, said he backed the decision made by headteacher David Kemp.

He said: “The graffiti was all over the front of the school, which borders a main road and the police are involved.

“It was anti-white and it included racist comments about the headteacher. There have been a few, very minor racist incidents in the past but nothing of great significance.

“There have been some undertones, and the head sought to defuse any sort of situation that might arise.”

The Tory councillor said the school had held meetings with residents, parents, leaders of the Asian community and the police to keep people informed.

“With what is happening internationally, you have to be aware things may flare up,” he added.

“I feel very sad that this has happened at all. It shows a lack of tolerance somewhere and we need to find where the intolerance lies.”