How are Bangladeshi migrants adapting to Scottish schooling? A case study in the city of Aberdeen

This pilot study investigates how Bangladeshi immigrant parents influence the way their children adapt to school in Aberdeen. A qualitative inquisition identified five main themes: language barriers, cultural and religious differences, friendship, and parental trust in school to explore relationships between migrant parent, children, and school. These themes explain possible interaction impacts between stakeholders and explore different dimensions of migrant integration. Despite migrant parents sincerely attempting to help their children to better integrate, there are linguistic, religious, and cultural gaps that are slowing down the integration process. Through the investigation of different relationships, interactions, and activities, this pilot study could provide a foundation for future research interests in migrant students’ integration in Scottish schools. The study recommends special emphasis in several areas, including parent counselling, teacher–parent interaction, increasing parents’ engagement in school activities, special meetings with migrant alumni, and Halal, or vegetarian food to be available in school.