In a case that drew national attention, a Muslim student has lost a legal challenge against a prestigious London school’s prohibition of prayer rituals.
The student, whose identity remains confidential, filed a lawsuit against Michaela Community School in northwest London, alleging that the ban discriminated against her faith, which relies heavily on ritualized prayers.
She contended that the school’s restriction on on-site prayers violated her right to religious practice and exacerbated feelings of alienation among religious minorities in society.
Michaela Community School, known for its academic excellence and strict regulations, defended its decision to implement the ban, stating that it was justified.
The High Court in London heard that the ban, put in place last year, was a response to several students praying in the school yard using blazers as makeshift prayer mats, as reported by the BBC.
The enforcement of the new regulations was prompted by concerns about a potential “culture shift” leading to division among religious groups and issues within the Muslim student community, the court was informed.
In his written verdict, Judge Thomas Linden dismissed the student’s claims, asserting that by enrolling at the school, she had agreed to abide by restrictions on expressing her religious beliefs.
He deemed the prayer ban policy as “appropriate,” emphasizing that its objectives and effectiveness outweighed any negative impact on the rights of Muslim students at the school.
Upon hearing the court’s decision, Katharine Birbalsingh, the headteacher of Michaela Community School, expressed satisfaction, stating that schools should have the autonomy to make decisions that benefit their students.
She added her remarks on X (formerly Twitter), affirming, “Schools should not have to alter their practices just because one student and her parent disagree with a school policy.”
Education Secretary Gillian Keegan also supported the ruling, asserting that headteachers are best equipped to make decisions that are in the best interest of their schools.
“I commend Michaela as an exceptional school, and I trust that this verdict empowers all school leaders to make sound judgments for their students,” Keegan added.
AFP