The Schools Linking Programme
Building bridges between communities

“It opened doors and generated enthusiasm to meet different people, learn from each other and enjoy each other’s company.”
“I enjoyed sharing views on what we think is important.”

The Schools Linking Programme (SLP) launched in September 2007 has been a successful bridge building initiative between Jewish and Muslim students in London. More than 100 students from seven Muslim and Jewish schools in London came together for a series of groundbreaking curriculum based workshops and fieldtrips. Students engaged in activities to combat misunderstandings and apprehension between the different faith groups, and built new friendships.

The SLP was the first of its kind in the UK providing young Jews and Muslims in London with the opportunity to meaningfully interact with each other over a sustained period of time. The programme has pioneered confidence building initiatives among young people aged between 10 and 15, which conforms to the new guidelines issued by the Government for promoting Community Cohesion, Citizenship and Diversity in schools.

The SLP has been a significant contributor in building positive relationships between people from different faiths and cultures and has established a unique partnership with faith schools, students, teachers and parents in London.

According to Rabia Lemahieu, Programme Manager of the SLP, the project has been a real learning journey for all parties involved. It has overcome many apprehensions which exist in both communities and has paved the way for future faith based linking projects.

At the end-of-year celebration held in the House of Lords, young Jews and Muslims demonstrated their shared enthusiasm, and proved to everyone present the quality of their leadership skills in taking the interfaith initiative forward.

Comments from teachers:
 “The SLP is a wonderful opportunity for young people of one faith school to engage with other young people from other faith schools. These interactions are crucial in fostering understanding and respect for each other's traditions and cultures.”

 “The SLP is a good start. It is a step that breaks the ice so that future contact between Muslim and Jewish pupils does not intimidate as much. The pupils will get to understand a bit of another culture and understand the similarities between human beings.”

“We need to get away from the idea that Muslims and Jews cannot talk to each other. This is not true, we need to get away from this. Tolerance is very important.”

Supported by The City Bridge Trust and The Stone Ashdown Trust

Schools Linking Programme

Photo Gallery

Links to view comments about the SLP:
Simon Marks
Immanuel College
King Solomon High School

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