The survey of 738 five-to 13-year-old asylum-seekers enrolled in Glasgow schools - more than half of the total of 1,231 - found that nearly half of the children described school as the very best thing about being in the city. Teachers and learning English also rated highly. All the children expressed enthusiasm about school, and many had aspirations to become doctors and teachers so they could put something back into the community in return for the support they had received.
Children of primary school age said the worst things about the city were violence on the streets, drunkenness and swearing, which made them feel unsafe. Many were not allowed out to play because their parents were worried about their safety. They ended up spending a great deal of time indoors and did not enjoy it, with limited financial resources for toys or games at home.
Secondary school pupils shared similar views, although they had a more developed understanding of the violence and abuse in local communities and described it as being caused by racism or drug and alcohol abuse.
Asylum-seeker parents were also consulted and most said they were pleased that their children were receiving an education and were happy in school.
In one area, parents had set up a homework club in a community facility.
The report, Starting Again... Young Asylum-seekers' Views on Glasgow, recommended having city-wide anti-racism initiatives to deal with the harassment suffered by asylum-seekers, and activities to allow asylum-seekers to meet local people and integrate socially. It also recommended opening a confidential advice service for young asylum-seekers.
Alison Davies, director of Save the Children in Scotland, said, 'We believe children coming to our country should be treated as children first and foremost. Not only have they already suffered the most distressing circumstances in their own country and had to flee everything they know; they now face misunderstanding, racial harassment, and difficult living conditions here. School is one bright thing in these children's lives and clearly calls into question Home Office plans to educate children separately in accommodation centres.'
The report is available for 5 from Joyce Sperber at Save the Children on 0131 527 8200.
