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preventing Radicalisation & Extremism

Introduction

Airways Aviation Group is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its students, staff, and management. We recognise that protecting individuals from the risks of radicalisation is as vital as safeguarding them from any other form of vulnerability.

We uphold and actively promote the fundamental values of individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs, always in line with the applicable regional or territorial law.

AIMS & PRINCIPLES

This policy aims to ensure that:

◦ All staff are informed, vigilant, and engaged regarding the risks of radicalisation and extremism, recognising that it could happen anywhere.

◦ The Academy is committed to promoting student welfare and safeguarding against radicalisation alongside other vulnerabilities.

◦ Our campuses provide a safe environment where students, staff, and management can openly discuss sensitive issues and develop the skills to challenge extremist ideas.

◦ Safer recruitment principles are consistently applied in all appointments, whether permanent or temporary.

◦ Systems for student and staff safety are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain appropriate and effective.

The Senior Management Team will ensure:

◦ All staff understand what radicalisation and extremism are, and why vigilance is necessary.

◦ Staff are familiar with the Academy’s anti-radicalisation and extremism policy and know how to respond if concerns arise.

◦ Students are aware that systems are in place to keep them safe, and that these are regularly reviewed for effectiveness.

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preventing Radicalisation & Extremism

Definition

Extremism is defined as vocal or active opposition to fundamental human values, including the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. It also includes calls for violence against members of the security services, police, or armed forces.

Radicalisation refers to the process by which individuals come to adopt extremist views, potentially leading to harmful or criminal behaviour. The process is often unpredictable, can vary in duration, and does not always result in violence.

Young people may be exposed to radical influences through peers, family members, acquaintances, or increasingly through online platforms and social networks. There is no single profile of a person at risk, but several indicators may suggest vulnerability.

Any prejudice, discriminatory behaviour, or extremist views expressed by students or staff will be challenged and dealt with appropriately, in line with the Academy’s Behaviour Policy for students and disciplinary procedures for staff.

Indicators of vulnerability to radicalisation

Some potential signs that an individual may be vulnerable to radicalisation include:

◦ Distancing from cultural or religious heritage and uncertainty about personal identity
◦ Feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, or identity confusion
◦ Exposure to discrimination, racism, or political grievances
◦ Feelings of injustice, failure, or rejection
◦ Previous involvement in criminal activity or imprisonment
◦ Special educational needs affecting judgement, empathy, or social interaction
◦ Contact with extremist recruiters or accessing extremist content online
◦ Justifying violence to resolve societal issues
◦ Seeking to join extremist groups
◦ Noticeable changes in appearance, behaviour, or attitude
◦ Experiencing high levels of social isolation

Please note: The presence of these indicators does not automatically mean an individual is at risk, but it may warrant further support or intervention.‍

The Role of the Curriculum

Airways Aviation promotes respect, diversity, and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to express their views and appreciate that differing beliefs must be respected without coercion.

Our teaching aims to build resilience against extremist influences by developing students’ critical thinking, self-confidence, and positive identity. Staff are trained to recognise early signs of radicalisation and to challenge negative or extremist views assertively and diplomatically.

We set high expectations for all students, encouraging aspirations, self-belief, and respect for others.

While every effort is made to safeguard the learning environment, staff remain vigilant for any breaches, including extremist speech, material, or influence. In such cases, disciplinary action may be taken, and if necessary, external authorities will be contacted.

Staff must ensure that no partisan political views are promoted during teaching, and students must be offered a balanced presentation of opposing views when political topics are discussed.

Procedures - raising concerns & taking action

It is important to maintain a record of all incidents, no matter how minor they may appear, to build a complete picture over time. Minor concerns should be reported to a member of the Senior Management Team. Immediate concerns relating to radicalisation or extremist behaviour must be verbally reported to the Head of Training, followed by a full written report. Where possible, reports should use the exact words of the student, rather than an interpretation or summary.

Anonymous concerns can also be raised through the internal Safety Management System. The Head of Training will take any immediate action necessary to safeguard the student or wider community, which may include removing individuals from the premises or contacting the appropriate external authorities.

In cases where a member of staff is involved, suspension procedures will be followed in accordance with internal policies. Wherever possible, suspension will be communicated in person by a member of senior management, and the staff member will be reminded of the conditions of suspension before being escorted from the premises.

Steps Taken & Policy Review Process

A risk assessment is reviewed annually and is maintained by the Head of Training. All staff and students are provided with appropriate access to relevant policies and procedures, and each student receives a Student Handbook outlining key safeguarding information.

Staff are fully briefed upon their initial appointment and are encouraged to review all safeguarding policies regularly to ensure continued awareness and compliance. Training and refresher training on safeguarding, including preventing radicalisation and extremism, are ideally conducted every three years to maintain high standards across the organisation.

Copies of all policies, training materials, handbooks, and related documentation are securely held by Human Resources and the Head of Training. The policy on Preventing Radicalisation and Extremism is publicly accessible via the Airways Aviation website and is reviewed and updated as required to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, or organisational needs.