A primary school has scrapped its annual Easter celebration and service in order to ‘respect diverse religious beliefs’.

The recent announcement has received harsh criticism online, with some labeling it as ‘disgraceful’ and ‘shambolic’. There are concerns among the public that Christmas celebrations may be next on the chopping block.

Norwood Primary School, located in Eastleigh, Hampshire, sent out a communication to parents and carers regarding the cancellation of both the Easter Bonnet Parade and Easter Service for this year.

Headteacher Stephanie Mander penned the letter, citing the school’s commitment to ‘respect for diversity’ and the goal of fostering ‘a more inclusive environment’ as the reasons behind the decision.

She said that respect for diverse religious beliefs represented within the school was the reason behind the decision.

‘By not holding specific religious celebrations, we aim to create a more inclusive atmosphere that honours and respects the beliefs of all our children and their families’, she said.

Norwood Primary School is a mixed primary school for pupils aged between 3 and 11, and it has no religious affiliation.

Responding to the news online, one person asked: ‘Is Miss Mander preparing to cancel Christmas as well?’.

Norwood Primary School in Eastleigh (pictured) sent a letter to parents and carers informing them that neither their Easter Bonnet Parade nor their Easter Service will be held this year

The school will not hold their usual Easter Bonnet Parade (stock image) 

The headteacher’s letter was shared in a local Facebook group, in which someone commented: ‘I would have thought it best to celebrate everything, not nothing.’

Another person said: ‘I don’t get it personally. It’s an experience that’s in walking distance of the school.

‘Parents have always been given the option to not attend. The school’s always been diverse and accepting of all.’

Miss Mander said that the school plans to celebrate Refugee Week in June.

She added: ‘We understand that this change may be disappointing for some, especially those who have cherished these traditions over the years.

‘However, we believe that this decision aligns with our values of inclusivity and respect for diversity.

‘We are exploring alternative ways to celebrate the season in future years, that will be inclusive of all children and reflect the rich cultural diversity of our community.

‘We appreciate your understanding and support as we make this transition.

‘If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school office.

‘Thank you for your continued support.’

The school’s website states: ‘Throughout the school year important celebrations in the lives of our children and school community are marked and celebrated together.

‘These include EID, Diwali, Christmas and Easter.

‘At these times the school welcomes in members of the wider school community to lead assemblies and learning activities with the children to share their beliefs with them.’

Norwood Primary School was rated ‘Good’ across the board in an Ofsted inspection in September 2024, except for the category ‘Outcomes for children and learners’ which was rated as requiring improvement.

It comes as last year, another Hampshire headteacher sparked fury after requesting all reference to Christmas be removed from a traditional festive pantomime being staged for young pupils.

A letter was sent to parents of 126 children at the Wherwell Primary School in Andover informing them that there would be no reference to Christmas in a production of ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. 

Parents slammed the decision not to include anything about the Christian celebration so the event can be ‘inclusive’ for children of all faiths. 

After a backlash from angry parents a new letter was sent out by the headteacher Mandy Ovenden this week explaining the school’s decision.

Mrs Ovenden said as the pantomime was not a Christmas event all children at the school should be able to attend – even those who parents usually stop them from attending anything that celebrates the festive season on religious grounds.