A teacher who labelled homosexuals “animals” in a message shared in a Muslim Whatsapp group claims he has changed his views and is “not homophobic.”
Razwan Faraz, former deputy headteacher at Trojan-Horse linked Nansen Primary School, is accused of including an undue amount of religious influence at three Birmingham academies.
The one-time governor was giving evidence at a disciplinary hearing at the National College For Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) based in Coventry.
Mr Faraz was a member of a Whatsapp group called the Park View Educational Trust Brotherhood , which consisted of Muslim teachers and staff based at the Park View Academies.
Mr Andrew Colman, prosecuting on behalf of the NCTL, referred to messages which Mr Faraz posted on the Whatsapp group.
In a reference to homosexuality being taught in schools Mr Faraz labelled homosexuals “animals” then said: “As teachers we must be aware of combatting their satanic ways.”
Nansen Primary and Rockwood Academy – formerly known as Park ViewNansen Primary and Rockwood Academy – formerly known as Park View.
Giving evidence Mr Faraz defended his comments saying he was brought up in a strict Muslim community in Pakistan but no longer held those views.
He said: “I am not homophobic. I have a gay friend who is an actor and a lesbian friend. I was brought up in a strict Muslim community in Pakistan. I realise those views I held and what I said was wrong.”
