Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller Education (UK)

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Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) pupils are among the most educationally disadvantaged groups in the UK. Barriers to achievement include discrimination, cultural misunderstanding, exclusion, and a lack of systemic support. Despite a strong cultural value for learning, many GRT families have experienced historical trauma and institutional distrust, affecting school attendance and engagement.

 

📊 Key Statistics (England – DfE 2022)

  • GCSE Achievement

    • 7.5% of Gypsy/Roma pupils

    • 20.4% of Irish Traveller pupils

    • Compared to ~65% national average achieving Grade 4+ in English & Maths

  • School Attendance

    • Among the lowest of all ethnic groups

    • Regular absences due to discrimination, bullying, and cultural mismatch

  • Exclusion Rates

    • 3–4x more likely to be excluded (fixed or permanent)

    • Often linked to miscommunication and unmet educational needs

  • Higher Education Access

    • Estimated <5% of GRT young people progress to university

 

 

🏛️ Policy Overview

  • Equality Act 2010

    • GRT groups are recognised as ethnic minorities with legal protection from discrimination.

  • Ofsted Expectations

    • Schools must show how they support GRT pupils and promote equality, inclusion and safety.

  • Traveller Education Support Services (TESS)

    • Previously funded by the government, many were cut post-2010. Some local authorities continue to offer support.

  • Race Disparity Audit (2017)

    • Highlighted GRT communities as experiencing the worst educational outcomes of any ethnic group.

 

 

🧩 Challenges

  • Cultural Invisibility – Lack of GRT content in curriculum and staff training

  • Discrimination & Bullying – A common cause of non-attendance and school refusal

  • Low Trust – Due to historic exclusion and stereotyping

  • Inflexible Education Models – School systems rarely accommodate Traveller lifestyles or transitions

 

 

✅ What’s Needed

  • Targeted support services and outreach workers

  • Cultural awareness training for staff and leadership

  • Anti-racism policies that explicitly include GRT pupils

  • Increased representation of GRT voices in policy and schools

  • Inclusive curricula that reflect GRT history and identity