ethnocentric curriculum

ball (1993)

the curriculum seeks to reposition the uk in some “mythical golden age of empire”, promoting an ethnocentric perspective that undermines ethnic cultures.

troyna and williams (1986)

claims the british system is institutionally racist, by denouncing the predominance of european languages over asian ones

ofsted’s director of inspections (jim rose)

some schools in the uk are institutionally racist — racism that resides in policies, procedures, operations and culture of public or private institutions.

where do we see institutional racism?

• leaving one group of children feeling inferior, and another group with a sense of superiority.

• black children don’t see themselves reflected back, and end up feeling that they can’t be the person they see in the inspiring story

how might schools be considered ethnocentric?

• british histories being taught from a european point of view, possibly even putting a positive spin on colonialism.

• white European languages such as French being taught as the main language subjects rather than Asian or African languages. (troyna and williams)

• Assemblies having a Christian focus, as well as the school holidays (Easter and Christmas).

ball (1994)

‘little englandism’: the current curriculum is focused on middle-class white british culture.

coard (1971)

• examined how certain ethnic groups fail in education, compared to other groups.

  • the british education system made black students feel ‘inferior in every way’: every book contained only white people. black representation consisted of them in subservient social roles, such as servants.

sewell report

• found 24 different ways to address racial/ethnic disparities.

• claims that the uk is moving towards a post-colonial society, and that racial inequalities are not an issue of deep concern in UK society + the government

evaluations of the sewell report

• ignores/denies institutional racism

• comparisons between black students and working class white students achievements were redundant - white students are not victims of racism.