Equalities in Children’s School Lives (2019–2023) – Gender, Migration, and Ethnicity

The reports from the Children’s School Lives (CSL) study describe, in detail, children’s experiences in Irish primary schools. These reports include three which focus specifically on the theme of ‘Equalities’. This article highlights key findings from two of these three reports—‘The Impact of Gender’ (Report 8b) and ‘Migration and Ethnicity’ (Report 8c)—and the influence of these factors on children’s learning, relationships, and aspirations.

CSL Report 8b: The Impact of Gender
This report reveals several gender-based disparities in children’s school experiences, including:

• Girls report more positive attitudes toward school and outperform boys in literacy, yet often lack academic self-belief, especially in maths.
• Gender stereotypes persist among children, with 'good boys' associated with being intelligent and sporty, and 'good girls' associated with being kind and diligent when learning.
• Girls tend to have higher aspirations and teachers set higher expectations for them.
• Girls in all-girls schools report stronger peer connections and less bullying, while boys in single-sex schools often form popularity hierarchies.
• Co-education is seen by teachers in the case study schools as more inclusive and reflective of real life.

CSL Report 8c: Migration and Ethnicity
This report highlights the effects of migration and ethnicity on children’s experiences:

• Immigrant children often enjoy school and exhibit confidence in learning, with second-generation immigrants showing the highest aspirations for higher education.
• Language barriers affect literacy and social integration, while minority ethnic children, especially from poorer backgrounds, report higher anxiety and lower self-esteem.
• Many schools work to create inclusive environments, but migrant children participate less in extracurricular activities, raising concerns about their full inclusion.

Both reports emphasise the need for inclusive school environments where every child feels valued and supported, regardless of gender or background. For more insights, visit cslstudy.ie.