MS, Cabinet Secretary for
Education: Since June 2008 people across the UK have celebrated
Gypsy, Roma and Traveller
History Month. It is an excellent opportunity to learn
about the richness of different Gypsy, Roma and Traveller
cultures, and how communities have contributed to society here in
Wales, in the UK, Europe and across the world.
The Welsh Government is embedding anti-racism into the education
system and driving equity in education so that every child and
young person feels valued in school and education settings.
In 2024-25 the Welsh Government is providing £11m in total
to our local authorities via the Minority Ethnic, Gypsy, Roma
Traveller (MEGRT) grant to support Gypsy, Roma and Traveller
children and young people who experience barriers to learning,
accessing the curriculum, or education in general.
It is essential that all children are encouraged to attend school
and access the benefits of education and can progress to college,
university or self-employment if they want to. However, too many
Gypsy, Roma and Traveller children and young people in school
experience bullying, discrimination and racism. This
discourages attendance, adversely affects mental health and
well-being, academic attainment and future life chances.
On 07 December 2023 we published “Celebrate and Participate:
education guidance to support Gypsy, Roma and Traveller children
and young people”. Our updated guidance addresses several key
areas where Gypsy, Roma and Traveller learners and schools
identified that more guidance is required.
I encourage everyone, not just teachers and education
practitioners, to find out more about the diversity of rich
cultures and heritage of our Gypsy, Roma and Traveller
communities in Wales in 2024's Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History
Month.
