Populist rhetoric and fundamental British values: testing the limits of political impartiality in schools

FORUM - ISSN 0963-8253
Volume 67 Number 1 (2025)

Populist rhetoric and fundamental British values: testing the limits of political impartiality in schools
Andrew B. Jones pages 27‑43
DOI: 10.3898/forum.2025.67.1.04

Abstract

This article explores the challenges of maintaining political impartiality in British schools, particularly in the context of promoting ‘fundamental British values’ (FBVs) amidst the rise of populist and often-divisive rhetoric, especially from the right wing of British politics. The analysis examines the statutory requirements for political impartiality, the impact of contemporary political discourse, and the role of teachers in navigating complex social and political landscapes. By highlighting the difficulties educators face in balancing a mandated requirement for impartiality with the necessity of addressing controversial issues, this article underscores the need for a nuanced approach to teaching that upholds democratic principles and prepares students for informed citizenship.

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To cite this article
Andrew B. Jones (2025) Populist rhetoric and fundamental British values: testing the limits of political impartiality in schools, FORUM, 67(1), 27-43 . https://doi.org/10.3898/forum.2025.67.1.04

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