Who are  Travellers?

'Gypsy RomaTraveller' (GRT) or 'Traveller' is an umbrella term used to cover several minority groups.  Their individual differences are as distinctive as those of  non-Traveller communities. 

Traveller groups include Gypsy/Roma, Travellers of Irish heritage, Fairground or Showpeople, Circus families, New Travellers  and Bargees. 

Gypsy/Roma and Travellers of  Irish Heritage have minority ethnic status and should be recorded as such on school admission forms.  They are protected by the Equalities Act 2010.

GRT pupils may choose to retain their ethnic identity even if they have stopped travelling.  Many Traveller families now live in houses, sometimes due to choice, but often due to a shortfall in site provision.

LEAs are under a statutory duty to make education available for all school aged children who reside in, or resort to their area. This duty is particularly relevant to Traveller children.

Traveller children may have additional needs in school, which will need special consideration.