Project details: Gypsy Traveller Pupils in Schools in the London Borough of Greenwich: A Report on Good Practice

Research Team

1. Dr Kalwant Bhopal
2. Martin Myers

Funding Body

London Borough of Greenwich

Duration

September 2004 - September 2006

Description

The main aim of the research was to identify examples of ‘good practice’ for Gypsy Traveller pupils in primary and secondary schools in the London Borough of Greenwich. A total of 21 schools were asked to participate in the research and provide examples of ‘good practice’ in their schools. The research was also based on in-depth interviews with professional educators and parents and children in a number of the schools. A very mixed picture of the education of Gypsy Traveller children in the London Borough of Greenwich has emerged. Within a minority of schools there are clear examples of ‘good practice’ that are embedded within the ethos and everyday working lives of schools in the Borough. Not only should their work be celebrated it should probably be disseminated widely for its engagement with challenging stereotypes about Gypsy Traveller culture both within and outside the school gates.

Outcomes

Significant Publications

  • Bhopal, K. (2006) ‘Issues of Rurality and Good Practice: Gypsy Traveller Pupils in Schools’, in S. Neal and Agyeman, J. (eds) The New Countryside? Ethnicity, Nation and Exclusion in Contemporary Rural Britain. Policy: Bristol.

    Books

  • Bhopal, K and Myers, M (2008) Insiders, Outsiders and Others: Gypsies and Identity. Hertfordshire: University of Hertfordshire Press

    Reports for External Body

  • Bhopal, K and Myers, M (2006) Gypsy Traveller Pupils in schools in the London Borough of Greenwich: A Report on Good Practice. London Borough of Greenwich: Education and Inspectorate Advisory Council.