CASE STUDY

Religious extremism: the Getting on Together (GOT) project

The Bishop of Llandaff Church in Wales High School has been working with two other high schools in Cardiff (not of the sector) to pilot a project aimed at examining religious extremism, and particularly the perversion of the non-violent message of the Islamic faith. The project works with learners to help counter prejudice, discrimination, intolerance and radicalisation in both black and white young people. As a corollary, the project also aims to heighten tolerance and respect for all and to create a more cohesive community. The 2008 pilot was funded by the Welsh Government and developed by five University professors, the South Wales Police, the Church in Wales, the Muslim Council of Wales, the South Wales Jewry, the Catholic Archbishop of Wales and the Cardiff Hindu Community. GOT has received wide acclaim and among the expert evaluations of the project is that of Professor Vincent Biondo, Assistant Professor, California State University, who states:

The GOT Program is the pinnacle accomplishment of the successful interfaith efforts in Cardiff . . . That the Welsh Assembly and Church in Wales are working with the Muslim Council of Wales on the GOT Program demonstrates forward thinking in itself.

Faith in education (2011). Welsh Government, 24