Bury primary pupils try hijabs during religious education lesson

At least 14 pupils, believed to be about six years old, wore hijabs after a religious education lesson at Ribble Drive Primary School in Bury. The activity has prompted disagreement about how schools should teach religious traditions and whether young children should try on religious clothing.

Councillor Shadman Zaman said six parents or guardians had raised concerns, including that children might see the clothing as dress-up and be too young to consent. Headteacher Melanie Kobak said pupils had asked to try the garments and were not made to wear them; she also said one parent had expressed unhappiness after the activity. The school said parents may withdraw children from religious education, and no such requests had been received.