preview

The Impact Of Poverty On Children And Young People 's Education

Better Essays

In such times of austerity, increased poverty is an issue that more of our nation 's families are having to cope with. Sadly, the resulting cost that children pay in their education when encountered with deprivation is also equally high. Each year, increasing numbers of children are entering education with needs and circumstances that schools are not prepared to or are unable to meet. Within this essay I will look to highlight the impact poverty has on children and young people’s education. I will also attempt to identify the reasons why poverty impacts on education. I will reference some studies that highlight the factors that put children and young people at risk and acknowledge some of the recommendations to bridge the gap in attainment from research carried out on this area.
The entitlement for all children and young people is an education that will enable them to be suitably prepared both socially and academically for life beyond the classroom. Unfortunately, research indicates that not all children who enter education in Scotland will leave with the same success due to one crucial factor – money. The term ‘at-risk’ refers to children who are likely to fail in school or in life because of their life’s social circumstances. One such circumstance is poverty and this is considered a major at-risk factor (Leroy & Symes, 2001). Some of the factors related to poverty that may place a child at-risk for academic failure include: very young, single or low education level

Get Access