Christian Teacher Sues UK School Over Dismissal

Anita Meston, a Christian supply teacher in Sunderland, is suing Biddick Academy, alleging discrimination after her contract was terminated following a Year 8 history lesson in March 2025. During a discussion of the moral questions raised by the Dresden bombing, students asked her about the Israel-Palestine conflict and abortion; she said she supported Israel while expressing concern for Gaza’s civilians, and described herself as pro-life when asked, citing her Christian faith. Meston says she answered direct questions and did not seek to impose her views. The school said she should keep personal opinions out of the classroom and cited concern that her comments could cause pupils harm or distress; one report also notes four earlier incidents in which the school had raised concerns about her behavior. Backed by Alliance Defending Freedom, Meston has brought a claim under the Equality Act, with a preliminary Employment Tribunal hearing scheduled for October 16.