TEACHING unions have hit out at “shamefully cruel” far-right attempts to make migrant children feel unwelcome in school.

More than 400 trade unionists slammed bigots for protesting outside of schools that work with the Schools of Sanctuary scheme.

The refugee charity has supported dozens to become welcoming places for all children, including newcomer children.

They have been targeted by the far right following online misinformation over five-year-olds being asked to write Valentine’s cards to asylum-seekers as part of the scheme.

Leading members of the National Education Union (NEU), NASUWT teachers’ union and University and College Union (UCU) are among those who signed the open letter to media editors.

It says: “We reject the divisive and dangerous rhetoric of the far right, and we believe the calls to protest against Schools of Sanctuary are not only wrong but shamefully cruel. 

“These protests target some of the most vulnerable children in our society, seeking to make them feel unwelcome in the very places that should offer them hope.

“Such actions do nothing to improve our communities and everything to spread fear and hatred. As educators, we stand united in our commitment to safe, inclusive schools where every child — regardless of origin — can thrive.”

It adds: “In a world where too many children experience loss and trauma, the message that they are safe, valued, and part of our community is not only morally right but educationally vital.

“That is why we support Schools of Sanctuary.”

Former Tory education secretary Gavin Williamson referred the network to the Charity Commission over its allegedly repeated breaches of a ban on engaging in political activity earlier this month.

The Birmingham branch of the Schools of Sanctuary group had shared social media images of three pupils holding a large card, which the network said would be “given to refugee recipients.”

The charity watchdog was yet to confirm “if there is a regulatory role for us” when asked for an update by the Morning Star yesterday.

Schools of Sanctuary UK has said that it is “not directly involved in the delivery of specific activities in schools” and that while there had been “mention of a Valentine’s Day welcome card initiative… we have full confidence that schools and teachers organise age-appropriate activities and follow rigorous safeguarding procedures to ensure every child’s safety during such activities.”

NEU general secretary Daniel Kebede said: “The NEU will always defend classrooms as places of belonging, not battlegrounds for bigotry. When fear and racism threaten to divide, we open hearts, not close doors.

“Education must remain a beacon of hope, dignity, and solidarity for every child.”

UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: “Schools and colleges provide a place of safety for children and young people of all backgrounds and the Schools of Sanctuary programme shows Britain at its very best. 

“Far-right activists who protest against educators welcoming young asylum-seekers and helping them integrate into our communities are devoid of all compassion.

“UCU stands with all children and young people and we will continue to oppose the hatred that drives opposition to simple acts of kindness.”

A spokesperson for City of Sanctuary UK, of which Schools of Sanctuary is a branch of, welcomed the union support as “invaluable in countering the misinformation that has been deliberately spread about our work with schools. 

“Like these educators, we are committed to ensuring that every child and family feels safe, valued, and welcome. Schools of Sanctuary is about compassion and community — creating classrooms where all young people can thrive.”

The statement was also backed by anti-racist campaigners Stand Up to Racism.

Co-convener Sabby Dhalu said: “We stand in solidarity with Schools of Sanctuary, which has been the target of attack by the far right recently.

“In response to a febrile racist climate towards refugees, we very much welcome this intervention by educators, asserting their commitment to safe, inclusive schools where every child — regardless of origin — can thrive.”

Association of School and College Leaders deputy director of policy Tom Middlehurst said: “Schools do everything they can to provide a welcoming, inclusive environment and support all pupils irrespective of their background and learning needs.”