School issues apology for placing MP's photo near fascists

A school has issued an apology after a photograph of Reform UK MP Lee Anderson was displayed next to images of fascist leaders Sir Oswald Mosley and Benito Mussolini on a political ideologies wall. The incident occurred at Quarrydale Academy in Ashfield.

MP Lee Anderson described the arrangement as "children being radicalised" and "an insult to millions of British citizens." The school has not confirmed whether the display was created by students or staff, but stated it was meant to "encourage discussion about the classification of political ideas."

Head teacher Tim Paling confirmed that the display has been removed and expressed regret for any distress caused. Anderson, who has represented Ashfield since 2019initially as a Conservative before joining Reform UK in March 2024shared a photo of the display on social media. The image showed the labels "extreme right-wing," "fascism," and "Nazi Party" alongside Mosley, Mussolini, and Marine Le Pen, with Anderson and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage placed to the left.

The display prompted Anderson to raise the matter in the House of Commons, questioning whether it was appropriate for the Year 9 curriculum. Education Minister Georgia Gould noted that schools must follow strict guidelines on political impartiality.

In response, head teacher Paling explained: "The display was intended as a visual tool to spark discussion about political ideas in historical context. However, we recognise that the inclusion of contemporary political figures may have been misinterpreted or seen as inappropriate. As a result, the display has been removed. The school is reviewing how political and historical content is presented to ensure clarity and prevent misunderstanding."

Quarrydale Academy apologises for any offence or concern caused by the display.

Author: Logan Reeves