East Renfrewshire Council has issued a public apology following a backlash over a letter from a primary school headteacher that suggested the Union Jack could be perceived as “offensive or sectarian.”
The controversy arose after students at Cross Arthurlie Primary School in Barrhead used Union flags featuring images of school staff during a recent primary seven leaversâ celebration. According to Headteacher Fiona MacDonald, the presence of the flags led to âconsiderable upsetâ at the start of the event, prompting her to address the issue in a letter to parents.
In her message, Ms. MacDonald emphasized the schoolâs commitment to promoting inclusion and discouraging anything that might be interpreted as divisive. She acknowledged that while the pupils did not intend harm, âothers within or beyond the school community may considerâ the use of the flag inappropriate or politically charged.
The headteacher also said she spoke to students the following day to explain why using staff images without consent and displaying certain symbols could carry unintended connotations. She referenced the significance that flags and symbols may hold for different groups in society.
Also Read – Derbyshire Primary School Awarded ÂŁ150K Government Grant
However, several Scottish Conservative politicians strongly criticized the letter, accusing the school of undermining a national symbol. Jackson Carlaw, MSP for Eastwood, and fellow Conservative Russell Findlay voiced their disapproval, with Findlay stating on social media: âOur countryâs flag is not âoffensive or sectarianâ.â
Amid the growing criticism, East Renfrewshire Council clarified the schoolâs position and apologized for any distress caused. A council spokesperson said:
âIt was not the schoolâs intention to imply the Union Flag is sectarian. Both the headteacher and the council apologize for any offence and upset caused to pupils, parents, carers, and the wider community.â
The council reiterated its expectations for local schools, stating that educational settings should foster an environment rooted in learning, unity, and pride in a diverse British society.
âWe believe in promoting an ethos that respects different perspectives and upholds national identity,â the statement added.
