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The Hope of Education focuses on the expectations that Somalis who came to Melbourne as refugees have for their children s education. It analyses their perceptions of the Somali and Australian education systems and the implications of these for their family s ability to adapt and cope with Australian life. In doing so, it also shows how they use education to reconstruct their world as part of resettlement in Australia. The Hope of Education highlights specific programs and activities that bring parents and teachers together around their child s education to build bridging social capital and optimism about the future. It sets the stage for positive agency at a time when Somali families are coping with trauma, loss and disconnection in an unfamiliar society. Therefore, this book has international application for helping schools and teachers to foster better communication and to create an environment in which families feel welcome and empowered.

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Robyn is the Research and Evaluation Manager for Royal Far West, a non-government organisation that offers allied health services for children living in rural and remote parts of Australia. She has had extensive experience in youth health and well-being, and has published in the areas of health/drug education, social capital and refugee issues.

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