Improving life chances for children and breaking cycles of deprivation - focus on education

Poverty and social exclusion have a major impact on the cognitive development and educational attainments of children. Facing poverty in early childhood tends to affect school achievements, and can lead to a greater risk of exclusion and bullying at school, resulting in higher 'drop-out' rates from education. These effects can be seen not only in children from poorer families but also from disadvantaged groups, such as children with disabilities, ethnic minorities, immigrants and children in care.

Network cities aim to identify effective strategies and successful projects concerned with improving children’s life chances and reducing social exclusion and early school drop out. The debate will focus particularly on which strategies currently implemented at city level have effectively promoted social inclusion of these children through tailored educational projects, such as mentoring groups. Particular attention will be given to the role played by local/regional authorities and their cooperation with the voluntary sector/NGOs.

In September 2008, Network partners will meet in Milan to define and analyse common problems and effective strategies related to this area.

If you would like to receive additional information about this area the Milan events please email againstchildpoverty@gle.co.uk