A primary school in Eastleigh, Hampshire, has sparked widespread controversy after canceling its traditional Easter Bonnet Parade and Easter service, citing a desire to create a more inclusive environment.

Norwood Primary School’s decision, announced by Headteacher Stephanie Mander, has drawn sharp criticism from parents, local residents, and public figures, who argue it undermines cultural traditions and sidelines Christianity in the UK.

The move has also prompted a protest outside the school, highlighting tensions over balancing inclusivity with long-standing religious celebrations.

In a letter to parents, Mander explained that the school, which has no religious affiliation, aims to foster an atmosphere that “honors and respects the beliefs of all our children and their families” by not holding specific religious celebrations.

“We understand that the change may be disappointing for some, especially those who have cherished these traditions over the years,” she wrote, adding that the decision aligns with the school’s values of inclusivity and respect for diversity.

Instead of the traditional events, the school plans to teach about Easter through classroom lessons and arts and crafts activities, while also participating in Refugee Week in June to celebrate inclusivity.

The announcement, shared in a local Facebook group, quickly ignited a firestorm of criticism. On April 4, approximately 50 Christian protesters, including members of the Living Word Church in Fareham, gathered outside Norwood Primary School.

They carried signs reading “Christ is King” and “End the persecution of Christians,” with some calling for Mander’s dismissal. Protester Marie Pigney, a grandmother from Titchfield, told The Telegraph, “When I was in school, Christianity was very much a part of it.

I and many others believe that a Christian foundation is really good for children and society.” Others, like Rob Owen, emphasized the importance of maintaining Easter as part of the UK’s cultural heritage.

Public figures also weighed in. Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman called the decision “cultural surrender,” arguing on social media platform X that “Britain’s Christian roots are being erased by spineless leaders who’d rather appease than preserve.”

George Galloway, former MP and leader of the Workers Party of Britain, declared, “Cancelling Easter in any school in Britain is completely unacceptable and the government must make this clear.”

The backlash was so intense that the word “Easter” became the top trending topic on X in the UK following Mander’s letter.

However, not all reactions were negative. A small group of parents staged a counter-protest in support of Mander, arguing that the decision was being misconstrued.

One parent, identified only as Iqra, told The Telegraph, “None of those people [protesters] have children at this school. I am just so upset that the children are being taught hate.

It is so unnecessary.” Another parent praised Mander’s leadership, stating, “At the end of the day, they are still celebrating Easter. Miss Mander is an amazing person, she has brought this school out of the gutter.”

The school later clarified that Easter would still be acknowledged, albeit without the traditional parade or church service, to accommodate diverse beliefs.

Critics pointed out an apparent contradiction with the school’s own policies. Norwood’s website states that it celebrates major religious festivals, including Eid, Diwali, Christmas, and Easter, to reflect the community’s diversity.

One commenter on a local Facebook group remarked, “I don’t get it personally. Parents have always been given the option to not attend. The school’s always been diverse and accepting of all.”

Others expressed concern that the decision could set a precedent, with one asking, “Is Miss Mander preparing to cancel Christmas as well?”

The controversy comes amid broader debates about the role of religious observance in UK schools. Some argue that canceling Christian traditions risks alienating the majority culture in the name of inclusivity.

Carole Manole, writing for GB News, questioned, “How is it that those entrusted with shaping the minds of children fail to realize that respect for other religions cannot be promoted by dismissing or attempting to erase another?”

Meanwhile, supporters of the decision, including some parents, argue that inclusivity requires rethinking traditions to ensure no child feels excluded.

Norwood Primary School’s Ofsted inspection in September 2024 rated it “Good” in most categories, though “outcomes for children and learners” was marked as “requiring improvement.”

Some online critics suggested Mander should focus on academic performance rather than what they called “woke ideology.” Hampshire police reported that the April 4 protest was peaceful, with no arrests made.