Ensuring Every Child Thrives in North-East Scotland

Children forced to flee conflict experience profound disruption to their education, friendships, and sense of safety. When refugee families arrive in Aberdeen, helping children settle quickly into local schools is one of the most effective ways to restore stability and routine.

Asylum & Refugee Care (AARC) SCIO works closely with parents, local schools, and community groups across Aberdeen to support the educational and social integration of refugee children.

Challenges Facing Refugee Families in Education

Refugee parents face several obstacles when enrolling their children in Scottish schools:

  • Language barriers when communicating with school administration
  • Lack of financial resources to purchase mandatory school uniforms and sports kit
  • Unfamiliarity with the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence
  • Past trauma affecting children’s concentration and emotional regulation

How AARC Helps Families Succeed

Our family support services provide holistic assistance throughout the school enrollment and learning process:

1. School Enrollment & Translation Support

We guide parents through Aberdeen City Council’s school registration process, assisting with form completion and attending initial school meetings alongside bilingual volunteers.

2. School Uniform & Stationery Grants

Thanks to local donations, AARC provides families with new school uniforms, backpacks, shoes, stationary kits, and PE kits, ensuring children start school feeling confident and equal to their peers.

3. Homework Clubs & Youth Activities

We organize after-school homework assistance sessions where children receive one-on-one help with reading, English grammar, and mathematics from patient volunteer tutors. We also organize weekend sports events, art workshops, and summer holiday outings.

Building Bright Futures Together

With the right support, refugee children show remarkable resilience, achieving academic excellence and becoming active, contributing members of Scottish society. AARC remains committed to standing beside every family on their journey.

To support our school uniform drives or volunteer with our youth programs, visit our Get Involved page today.