1. . Examining the perceptions and experiences of British Minority Ethnic (BME) and Overseas student teachers in a North-east University. Linda Wilson. Margaret Stephenson. Olaojo Aiyegbayo. Linda.wilson@sunderland.ac.uk, margaret.stephenson@sunderland.ac.uk, Linda.wilson@sunderland.ac.uk, margaret.stephenson@sunderland.ac.uk olaojo.aiyegbayo@sunderland.ac.uk

2. Introduction TDA places emphasis on recruitment and retention of BME teachers. National target for minority ethnic recruitment for the third year running was in 2005 exceeded (was 9%). Recruitment now at an all time high. How are we doing so far? Recruitment: We have exceeded our TDA ‘target’. In 2005, UoS recruited 28 people from a minority ethnic background. This was 7.3% of those who declared their ethnicity. Retention – focus on figures which are not as good as we would have wished and don't compare favourably with overall recruitment and retention of all students.

3. Preliminary Findings: Factors aiding student persistence/retention: Motivation: Postgraduate/mature students Love for teaching Financial support: Bursary Partial scholarship Effective supportive network: Effective tutors Placement schools Student expectations: (realistic expectations)

4. Factors hindering student recruitment The negative perception of Sunderland city. Incidents of racism within the city. Lack of strong multicultural communities in city. Competition from Newcastle city and universities. However students reported that the University and schools were ‘safe’

5. Factors aiding recruitment Reputation: Ofsted ratings. Niche courses: DT/ICT & Business courses. Partial international scholarships: £1500 Quick and prompt replies to course information

6. Overseas students’ issues Cultural: anxiety over accent Past educational orientations: Financial: more support. Acceptance in ‘white’ placement schools:

7. Limitations/challenges of study Limited number of BME students: 11 out 25. Small number of respondents to generalise. Difficulty of access to students. Students didn’t perceive any direct benefit. Some were mistrustful of research.

8. Conclusion Need to promote our reputation with home and international market Promote our niche courses Go to other institutions within the region to recruit (ICT/Business/D&T) Strengthen the network of support for students in university and in schools While we have no control over the wider perception of the City of Sunderland, continue to work with the City to promote the area. Our fortunes are interlinked