The Traveller Movement has developed a teaching resource in collaboration with the NEU titled “More than an acronym“.
This advice supports educators to develop safe, inclusive and welcoming environments for Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Traveller children from the Early Years to Key Stage 4 which is key to their social and emotional development, as well as to their peers’ understanding of these marginalised ethnic groups.
An important message shared in this advice is about understanding the differences and commonalities between different Traveller communities. Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Irish Travellers have often been amalgamated under the umbrella term ‘GRT’. This has led to confusion and misunderstanding that the three ethnic groups are the same. This is not true. In order to avoid confusion, the Traveller Movement encourages professionals to avoid use of this acronym.
It also reinforces a fundamental truth: schools have a responsibility under the Equality Act to actively address inequality and discrimination.
It recognises that it is crucial to promote fairness, equality and inclusion, and to celebrate diversity in education. Not only so that every child and young person is included and feels a sense of belonging, but also so that they learn to value difference in their peers and wider society.
“More than an acronym” provides practical tools for schools, recognising that inclusion isn’t optional, it’s essential to children’s wellbeing, belonging and outcomes.
The Traveller Movement also produced the toolkit below in 2022 to improve understanding and to support effective practice for those working with ethnic Gypsy, Roma and Traveller young people. It is based on the ‘Roads to Success’ research project. This youth peer led research programme studied the views of young Gypsies, Roma and Travellers, and organisations working with them. The research was funded by Youth Futures Foundation.
https://travellermovement.org.uk/policy-and-publications/besties-toolkit