“There is no one simple definition of Gypsy/Traveller. There are minority ethnic, professional, trade, craft and business communities which travel, each with a rich history, culture, religion, dialect or language”. ‘The Educational Institute of Scotland’: 2012
In Scotland, the term ‘Gypsy/Traveller’ was coined by the Scottish Parliament in an attempt to address a ‘wide community of different needs’. This was after much consultation with Travelling Communities. The EIS points out however that this is a term which is not necessarily welcomed by all Travelling Communities and therefore, a certain amount of discretion should be applied when addressing traveller groups.
UK National policies refer to Travelling Communities as ‘Gypsy /Roma/ Travellers’ (GRT). Whatever the terms used, Travelling Communities are diverse, proud groups of people, steeped in heritage and historic tradition. Some distinct groups include:
Ethnic groups:
- Gypsy/Romany
- Irish Travellers
- Scottish Travellers
- European Roma
Occupational groups:
- Fairground Travellers
- Circus Travellers
- New Travellers
- Bargees (living on boats)
All groups have a strong sense of identity. They have their own cultural traditions and some even have their own language. All groups have a right to be treated with equality and respect.
Many Gypsy/ Traveller pupils have little or no experience of school and those who do may not associate this time with good experiences. You can find supports and strategies within the Gypsy Travellers Handbook here.
