By Michelle Simon | Partnerships
School dropout is more noticeable among Spanish girls, boys, and adolescents whose families are at risk of poverty and social exclusion. In Spain, the existence of a public education system may lead to the assumption that all minors have guaranteed access to free and quality education, but unfortunately, this is not always the case.
One in three Spanish children is at risk of poverty or social exclusion, and the socio-economic conditions of their families impact their education. This is evidenced by the fact that 16.7% of students were forced to drop out of school prematurely, according to a study by the Center for Economic Policies at Esade (EsadeEcPol).
Furthermore, this text highlights how the difference in income and socio-economic level between two children of the same age affects their educational level. For example, the difference between a child from a low socio-economic background and one from a high socio-economic background in a grade such as 3rd grade, in subjects like mathematics and language, is equivalent to almost two years of schooling difference.
However, school dropout is not the only educational consequence affecting girls, boys, and adolescents at risk of poverty or social exclusion. There are other effects that also impact their academic formation:
- The digital divide affects access to education because households with an income below 900 euros have more difficulties in having a computer and internet connection, thus limiting their educational opportunities. According to the Children's Platform, 500,000 children live in homes without a computer, and nearly 100,000 children do not have internet access at home.
- Less likelihood, or even impossibility, of participating in extracurricular activities that reinforce their physical well-being (sports, leisure, or recreational activities) or strengthen skills, where they can enjoy and derive satisfaction. Not being able to participate negatively impacts their development and hinders their social integration.
- Children from low-income families and socio-economic difficulties have lower academic achievement, a higher rate of grade repetition, and higher levels of absenteeism.
By Michelle Simon | Partnerships
By MICHELLE SIMON | Partnerships
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