ABSTRACT

At Clementine, the approach to supporting Muslim girls was holistic. This involved the school's efforts to create an inclusive climate for all students. Significant to the girls' sense of inclusion was their learning experiences within Religious Studies (RS). A major focus within RS at Clementine was on the instrumentalist goals of broadening students' understandings and acceptance of religious diversity. The most productive way of protecting students from radicalisation was through an inclusive and educative approach. This chapter examines the ways in which this approach informed the exploration of contentious religion-related issues, including religious extremism. Zaina also commented on how the inclusive environment at Clementine impacted on other students' levels of acceptance towards Muslims, as she explained in relation to her Hindu friend and the issue of religious discrimination. Students were supported to explore contentious religion-related issues, including extremism, with a key purpose being to dispel myths and stereotypes about Islam and Muslims.