ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the experiences of language learning, education, training for work and employment among refugees in the London Borough of Newham within the context of urban regeneration. It contextualizes the situation of refugees in Newham by providing some background information about the local economy and urban regeneration policies. The chapter then provides an overview of the skills and experience that refugees bring with them on arrival to Britain. It also explores the role of urban regeneration policies in the reskilling of disadvantaged communities and refugee people's experiences of, and participation in, language learning, training and employment. Many refugees arrive in Britain with high levels of education and qualifications. Nevertheless, they seem unable to use their skills in paid employment and levels of unemployment among refugees exceeded that of any other group. Those who were working tended to be employed in low paid work with poor terms and conditions of employment.
