Challenges and opportunities in the education of students with immigrant background in Iceland

Abstract

This paper reports findings from a qualitative study on how municipalities organise and structure the support for students with immigrant background. The study is part of a larger research project, Inclusive Societies, which aims to compare integration patterns of immigrants in Iceland in various municipalities across the country. The project’s overall goal is to examine immigrants’ situation in Icelandic society with regards to language, employment, education, culture and satisfaction. In the spring of 2019, qualitative data were collected in interviews in four municipalities with heads of school offices, principals of schools, teachers and special education teachers on issues related to the education of students with immigrant background. In the paper we present findings on educational policies regarding students with immigrant background, support and training offered to teachers, and the challenges and opportunities in the education of students with immigrant background in Iceland.