Offering More Than They Can Borrow: Refugee children in London (GLA 2004)

This report presents what is known about refugee children in London and identifies an agenda for action to ensure that they have the same chance as others of realising their potential. The report is based on research studies that actively consulted young people in London, including refugee children. It also reflects responses to the GLA’s consultation on refugees and asylum seekers.

This report is useful background reading for teacher educators and student teachers/trainees, particularly section on 'Education and Training'.

Key findings include:

• Refugee are too often not being treated as children first and refugee second.
• Data on and ethnic monitoring of refugee children is patchy and of variable quality.
• Available evidence suggests a low take up of pre-school services and post-compulsory education.
• Refugee children are likely to experience by high level of poverty which is exacerbated by asylum policies.