ABSTRACT
This chapter overviews minority ethnic participation in the teaching profession. It starts with an overview of literature in this respect and includes sections on training and participation of minority ethnic teachers in schools, presence of minority ethnic staff in teacher training institutions, and recruitment of minority ethnic students on initial teacher training courses. It also includes a discussion of issues of concern and ends with practical suggestions for improving training and supply of minority ethnic teachers. The Swann Committee endorsed the view that some minority ethnic teachers can play a particularly valuable 'pastoral' role both directly, through supporting and encouraging pupils, and indirectly, through advising their colleagues on the backgrounds and concerns of minority ethnic groups. The presence of minority ethnic teachers in schools is hindered by a vicious cycle that is perpetuating experiences of racism and racial discrimination.
