School apologises after Muslim students pictured praying outside in cold weather
Video showed at least eight students and a supervising member of staff in a hi-vis jacket
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A high school in Oldham, Manchester has issued an apology after Muslim students were pictured praying outside in cold weather.
The students from Oldham Academy North were shown conducting their Friday prayers on the pavement after a teacher reportedly kicked them out of a classroom during lunchtime.
The video shows at least eight male students and a supervising member of staff in a hi-vis jacket.
The school issued a formal apology in a joint statement with Oldham Interfaith Forum and Council released on Twitter and confirmed an investigation has been launched.
They said: “The academy would like to offer a wholeheartedly apology. The school is proud of its diversity and has never and would never stop students from praying or ask them to pray outside.
“They will be launching a thorough investigation into what happened and a prayer facility is now available for those who choose to use it.”
Oldham Council leader, Arooj Shah, said: “When we were made aware of the issues raised at the Oldham Academy North, we acted quickly to speak with the school to understand what has happened.
“Having spoken with the school leaders I am glad they have apologies to those who were affected and will be writing to parents to explain.”
Oldham Mosques Council Development Officer, Mufti Helal Mahmood, said: “We will be working closely with Oldham Academy North to ensure incidents like this can be avoided in the future.
“We have a strong history in Oldhma of working together across different communities and faiths. We must not let ourselves be divided when issues arise but work through them in partnership to achieve peaceful resolutions.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments