Learning in and beyond the classroom: Communities of practice in education support for separated children

Abstract

Separated children, seeking protection in a new country unaccompanied by parents or customary caregivers, have the right to education yet many face difficulties accessing appropriate provision. We analysed data from Scotland across different types of provision: one specialist programme for separated children and four areas providing a mixture of mainstream and adapted classes. Drawing on situated learning theory and the concept of communities of practice, we argue that supporting these learners requires collaborations with them and across professional boundaries. While highly effective communities of practice can and do develop organically, a coordinated approach to expanding them could bring additional benefits.