Ukrainian refugee children in UK schools: recommendations and resources for educators

Abstract

Responding to the Russian full-scale aggression against Ukraine, the UK created special safe routes for Ukrainians fleeing the war, named the Ukrainian Schemes. These comprised three programmes – the Ukraine Family Scheme, the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, and the Ukraine Extension Scheme. As of 16 December 2024, a total of 218,600 Ukrainians have arrived in the UK via these routes since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, with 28% of them being under 18 years old.1 According to government statistics, over 20,000 school places had been offered to displaced Ukrainian children before the start of the academic year in 2022 when the largest number of refugees arrived.2
Approximately two-thirds of Ukrainians would like to stay in the UK even when it feels safe to return to Ukraine, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) survey conducted in April 2024,3 and our research confirms this desire to remain.4 Overall, British schools and local communities provided considerable support to displaced children, many of whom were able to successfully complete their education in British schools and start further study or work. This guidance highlights various challenges and experiences faced by Ukrainian children in UK schools, including cultural sensitivity, bullying, and the importance of talking with children about the war. The recommendations are designed to address these concerns and continue making schools welcoming and safe spaces.