Somali pupils in key London schools buck national trend: research highlights good practice for schools

A new research report released today has found that Somali pupils in ten London Schools are bucking the national trend by demonstrating an impressive improvement in performance.

The joint research, led by Lambeth Council and commissioned by a pan-London group of local authorities, has found that despite a national trend of underperformance, Somali pupils in ten London schools have shown a dramatic rise in achievement over the last few years.

Researchers attribute the success to good practice, which they hope can be emulated in other schools to support the 35,000 Somali pupils in London and across the UK.

In one case study secondary school the number of Somali pupils achieving five or more A* to C grades rose from 27 percent in 1994 to 100 percent in 2007.

In another primary school, 94 percent of Somali pupils who entered the school a few years ago with well below average scores achieved a level 4 or above in English and Science, despite English not being their first language.

Researchers found reasons behind the improvements included:

• strong, inspirational leadership by the Headteacher supported by a capable management team
• close links with parents and increasing community support
• effective use of diverse workforce
• effective support for pupils for who English is not a first language and a broad curriculum which incorporates aspects of pupils' own culture adding relevance and building self-esteem.
• successful recruitment of staff reflecting the local community
• Somali learning mentors making successful links with the local community, parent and pupils.

Feyisa Demie, Head of Research and Statistics at Lambeth Council, said: "Schools will want to learn what has been proven to work and the factors that make a difference. The London research report provides the evidence and practical tips to ensure that we can meet the challenge of raising achievement of Somali pupils and other minority groups in schools."

The research draws on detailed statistical analysis as well as evidence from parent and community focus groups and school case study visits which explore the views of headteachers, staff, governors, Somali parents and pupils.

The research was carried out by Feyisa Demie (Head of Research and Statistics); Christabel McLean (Education Advisor) and Kirstin Lewis (Teaching and Learning Consultant) and Jan McKenley former HMI.

A London-wide conference to discuss the research findings will be held on 12 June 2008 to help share the findings with schools.