"I Am a Muslim First …" Challenges of Muslimness and the UK State Schools. Issue 3 (3rd July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shah, Saeeda
• Is Part Of: Leadership and policy in schools. Volume 18:Issue 3(2019)
• Page Start: 341
• Page End: 356
• Publication Date: 2019-07-03
• Subjects: School management and organization -- Periodicals; Educational leadership -- Periodicals; 371
• DOI: 10.1080/15700763.2017.1398335
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1570-0763

Abstract

ABSTRACT: When a third-generation, British-born young Muslim student in a British state school says to researcher "I am a Muslim first …, " it makes one think. What are the factors underpinning this statement? In a highly diverse multi-faith, multiethnic, multicultural society such as Britain, why does a young British Muslim student become so emphatic in proclaiming faith identity? The article looks into identity dynamics with a focus on Muslim youth in the UK and discusses how these might impact on their educational experiences. The article also explores the challenges facing educational leaders in managing Muslimness.