Pupils from ethnic minority, traveller, refugee or asylum backgrounds (EMTRAS)

Some children are not able to speak English very well when they are ready to go to school.

This is often due to the language in their home not being English, or perhaps the child has arrived from overseas.

The Ethnic Minority Traveller Refugee Achievement Service (EMTRAS) provides help for these children to access schools across South Tyneside, and supports pupils who have English as an Additional Language (EAL) once they are in school.

Support to families

EMTRAS provides families help with information about:

  • Applying for school places and uniform support
  • Accessing children centres (Family Hubs)
  • Advice and guidance on a range of issues
  • Linking to support groups and charitable organisations

Support to children in school

EMTRAS can provide support to pupils in schools by offering:

  • Individual or small group teaching outside of class
  • Support in the classroom
  • After school clubs

Support to schools

EMTRAS can provide support to schools by offering:

  • Advice and guidance to teachers
  • Group training to school staff
  • Support to pupils, either 1 to 1 or in class support
  • Small group work
  • New arrival admission support 

How to get help from EMTRAS

For help and further information, please call EMTRAS on 0191 426 8140 or email EMTRAS@southtyneside.gov.uk.

Support services

Please find below links to charities in the local area who may be able to help you.

South Tyneside Asylum Seekers and Refugees Church Help (STARCH) - STARCH offers support to asylum seekers and refugees and hosts a weekly drop in service at Living Waters Church.

Compact for Race Equality in South Tyneside (CREST) - CREST promotes racial equality in South Tyneside and supports those in need to access education, training and employment.

Apna Ghar - Apna Ghar is a centre for minority ethnic women. The centre provides opportunities for women to develop confidence and reach their full potential.

British Red Cross - The British Red Cross provides a range of support services to asylum seekers and refugees.