The role of the school leader in the inclusion of migrant families and students

Abstract

Social, political and economic upheavals, coupled with natural disasters, are recurring, major causes of the displacement of people worldwide. Hosting nations are constantly seeking ways and means to meet the diverse needs of migrants, immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers, with schools incessantly being urged to play a major role in the inclusion of migrant students in all aspects of school life. The study highlights the strategies being employed by a Maltese school leader in his quest to fulfil his noble mission of effectively including all students, irrespective of background of origin. The study also seeks to develop and expand the role of the school leader towards meeting the needs of migrant students and their families within the school set-up and beyond. It also seeks to engage readers in a critical and constructive discussion surrounding the effective inclusion of migrant students in schools and society. It transpired that the school leader‘s work can be summarised under four categories: 1) reconceptualising the meaning of diversity 2) promoting an inclusive school culture, 3) strengthening of language support and 4) the extension of school relationships beyond school boundaries.