Children as young as eight in Cornwall have been banned by their parents from attending a school religious education trip to a British mosque over ‘safety’ fears.
Around 100 primary pupils were due to go on the trip as an opportunity for pupils in Year Three to Six to learn about different faiths.
Lostwithiel School said the trip to the mosque in Exeter was part of an RE learning exercise.
They were due to visit a cathedral then tour the mosque where they will observe a congregational prayer and be able to ask questions.
The school said the pupils would observe the appropriate dress code, taking off their shoes before they entered the mosque and wearing trousers and long sleeves.
But around ten pupils pulled after parents said they had ‘grave concerns’ about the teaching of Islam.
One parent, who didn’t wish to be named, said: “We have grave concerns about the children’s safety during the trip due to the horrific events that occur every day.
“We have therefore decided not to send our children on this trip. This decision is not one based on ignorance or racial or religious beliefs, but one based purely on safety concerns.”
The parent said she was furious after the pupils not going were singled out in assembly.
She said: “They were made to stand up after assembly. The sitting non-attendees were then asked individually why they were not going on the trip.
“This is not a decision the children have made, so discriminating against these children in this fashion is disgraceful, unacceptable and unprofessional.”
Kat Smith, the chairman of governors, said: “This is the first time pupils from the school have visited a mosque and it’s an exciting opportunity for them to learn about different faiths and ensure that they’re aware of the diverse nature of modern Britain.
“Because of recent news reports about extremist groups, such as ISIS, that identify themselves with Islam, a small number of parents have expressed concerns about the trip and the teaching of Islam in school.
“In response, the school held a special assembly with children to discuss these issues, and the head teacher has met and sent letters to parents with specific concerns.”
Head teacher Carolyn Huxley said the trip was still taking place on May 7.
She said: “Our hope from the visit to the mosque is that children will be given a view as to what are the values and beliefs of a ‘British Muslim’.
“This trip will show the children the views of extremists are not a true reflection of Islam as a religion.”