Challenges in promoting an inclusive educational environment for british children: Issues of race, ethnicity and social class

Identifier:  imarina:9329059

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/imarina9329059

Authors:  Hà TA; Bellot AR

Abstract:
This paper reviews different factors affecting an inclusive educational environment for British children, including race, ethnicity, and social class. Research has shown that different ethnicities and races affect children’s national identification - to be British is perceived as less relevant than being English, Scottish, Welsh, or Northern Irish. In addition, children’s association of positive attributes, such as food, school clothes, or extra classes, with people from high-ranking social class also divides classroom environments in the UK. In this context, children coming from lower ranking social status can be vulnerable. This reality requires educational solutions to promote intercultural competence that would foster respect, embrace differences and cultural diversity, and create an inclusive educational environment for British school children.