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This literature review represents one strand of a study funded by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) focusing on the issues faced by Gypsy, Roma and Traveller pupils and what can be done to improve the educational outcomes for this particular group.

Approaches employed to enhance pupils’ well-being are highlighted and include:

• Effective pastoral support; sensitive and flexible approaches in relation to
  particular needs; peer support and peer mentoring; and identified staff with designated responsibility for supporting the learning and well-being of Traveller pupils
• Individual mentoring and systematic monitoring of secondary age Gypsy and Traveller pupils was found to raise attendance and attainment in one case-study school, and in another, pastoral support for vulnerable Roma pupils led to a perceived increase in confidence
• In Scottish secondary schools, peer support and mentoring within anti-racist practices are seen as tangible and effective responses. For example, mentoring by carefully selected staff, older pupils or further/higher education students and local employers have been found to contribute to ‘increased pupil confidence, and improved attendance and staying on rates'

Download Improving the outcomes for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller pupils – Literature Review (NFER, 2009)