The Inclusion of Traveller Pupils - Raising Achievements Essay

The Inclusion of Traveller Pupils - Raising Achievements - Essay Example Increasing mainstream access is an important goal† (cited in Rayner 2007: 35). While there are a lot of various definitions of educational inclusion, this concept is always understood in the context of an ideology of social justice, namely in the context of the principle of equity in education. Inclusive education may be viewed as equal education for all pupils who come to school, regardless of a range of student characteristics, including â€Å"class, race, ethnicity, sexuality, perceived level of ability or disability, or age† (Rayner 2007: 36). OFSTED (2000) adds that it is for the most part about the provision made for and the achievement of different groups of pupils within a school, including â€Å"minority ethnic and faith groups, Travellers, asylum seekers and refugees† (p.4). However, equity in education should not be understood as â€Å"treating all pupils in the same way†, rather it involves â€Å"taking account of pupils’ varied life exp eriences and needs† (OFSTED 2000: 7). ... The recent evolution of inclusion within the British educational system started in 1997, when the New Labour came to power. In 2000 a revised National Curriculum was designed to â€Å"secure for all pupils †¦an entitlement to a number of areas of learning and to develop knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes necessary for their self-fulfilment as active and responsible citizens† (Hodkinson and Vickerman 2009: 74). This Curriculum 2000 is intended to be a curriculum for all as of right (Clough 1988: 11), and it is based upon three core principles: (1) setting suitable learning challenges; (2) responding to pupils’ diverse learning needs; (3) overcoming potential barriers to learning and assessment for individuals and groups of pupils (QCDA online). During the recent decade, significant changes in policies and practices aimed at the development of inclusive education have occurred. It is widely recognised that there are many benefits of children when they rec eive an inclusive education. The most important of these benefits have been documented by Moore (2009: 22-23) on the basis of analysis of recent research. They are: Increasing of growth in social skills of children as a result of their socialising with similar age peers. Forming a better sense of belonging, this is considered to have a great impact on achievement a sense of self-worth and performance in society. Exercising a basic right to be educated with peers and to participate in all facets of childhood and school setting on equal terms with other pupils. Minimising an effect of labelling that is very important in terms of maturation and development of a child’s performance. Learning and forming a positive feeling about others who have differences in lifestyle, race, customs and traditions.