This research domain focuses on multiple relationships between migration and education. Migration can affect the education system both indirectly and directly. Indirect impact relates to the consequences for local schools of increases in the number of migrants settling in or being referred to certain residential areas.
The social and ethnic make-up of the population and the reputation and status of the area are reflected in schools’ make-up of students, reputation, status and student performance. Over the last decade, freedom of choice with regard to schools has also depleted schools in structurally disadvantaged and multicultural areas in that increasing numbers of students are applying for schools in other areas, where the proportion of students with migrant backgrounds is lower. As a consequence, residential segregation and freedom of choice are two external factors that are affecting working conditions for schools to an alarming extent.