‘What about us?’ Gypsies, Travellers and ‘White racism’ in secondary schools in England

Abstract

This article examines the concept of ‘White racism’ in relation to the experiences of Gypsy and Traveller groups in England. It is based on ethnographic research conducted in two secondary schools during the years 2006–2009. Interviews were carried out with pupils attending the secondary schools, their mothers and members of the Traveller Education Service. The research reveals that racism experienced by White Gypsy and Traveller groups is understood differently to that experienced by non-White minority ethnic groups. This is further related to how Gypsy and Traveller groups are perceived inside and outside schools, as ‘others’ and ‘outsiders’. The article considers discourses around racism and discrimination and how they might work to disadvantage Gypsy and Traveller groups in schools.

Keywords:

• whiteness
• racism
• Gypsies and Travellers
• schools
• minority groups

Notes

1. I recognise the problems associated with the definition of terms used to describe those from nomadic backgrounds; they encompass a variety of groups such as English, Scottish, Irish and Welsh Travellers as well as Bargees, Showmen and New Age Travellers. For this paper the term Gypsy and Traveller is used as this was a term respondents used to define themselves and the Gypsies and Travellers who participated in the research were from English Romany backgrounds and identified themselves as members of an ethnic group.

2. The TES was set up in the 1970s to provide support for nomadic groups. It was funded as part of the EMAG (Ethnic Minority Achievement Grant) and worked to increase attendance and achievement levels for nomadic groups by providing support such as uniform, books and transport. Whilst writing (September, 2011) under the new Coalition Government funding for the TES has been dramatically cut and it is doubtful whether such a service will receive future funding.

3. P1 was based on 15 interviews with families, 12 of which were conducted with mothers and three with fathers. Eight TES professionals were also interviewed. P2 was based on 10 interviews with families, 9 of which were conducted with mothers and 1 with a father. Seven TES professionals and four educationalists were also interviewed. Interviews were also conducted with Gypsy and Traveller children, 16 participated in P1 and 12 in P2.

4. The two categories of Gypsy and Traveller groups that have been included are those from Gypsy/Roma backgrounds and Irish Travellers.

5. The General Certificate of Secondary Education is an exam usually taken at age 16 in England.

6. Standard Assessment Tests take place for pupils in England at primary level in year 2 (age 7) and year 6 (age 11) and secondary level in year 9 (age 14). SATS are used to measure pupil progress and are used to position schools in league tables.

7. All names are pseudonyms.