Introduction — Shifting from Eurocentric to Inclusive
In many UK schools, learning remains heavily Eurocentric centred on Western achievements, perspectives, and histories. While rooted in tradition, this approach excludes, distorts, and delegitimises the contributions of non-European communities. This imbalance harms all learners—but particularly ethnic-minority students—by denying them representation and connection in their own education.
At Ribbons & Reeves, which places Early Career Teachers in schools across culture-rich London and beyond, we’ve seen how restrictive curricula exacerbate disengagement and limit pupil potential. Here's a deep dive into why Eurocentric learning is harmful—and how schools can build a more equitable, empowering curriculum.
The Erasure of Narratives and the Impact of Eurocentric Learning
A curriculum centred around European history often relegates Black British history and achievements to a single month of tokenistic Black History lessons—if they're included at all.
Consequences include:
Black pupils feeling disconnected from what they’re taught
Reduced engagement, sense of belonging, and academic performance
White pupils developing narrow understandings of British identity and history
Eurocentric learning leads to a lack of representation in both content and role models, making it harder for students to see themselves as valuable contributors to society. Decolonising the curriculum means weaving diverse voices—non-Western literature, scientists, political thinkers—through every subject, not just history or English classes. This helps all students see themselves in the content and fosters empathy, critical thinking, and belonging.
Reinforcing Colonial Power Structures Through the Curriculum
The term coloniality of knowledge describes how Western epistemologies—ways of knowing—have been elevated as universal truths, marginalising other forms of knowledge.
Effects include -
Non-Western perspectives dismissed as "inferior" or “alternative”
Limited critical thinking, reinforcing power imbalances between Global North and South
Future researchers and learners taught to privilege Western narratives only
Schools must decolonise curricula by including indigenous knowledge, global scholarship, and critical perspectives. By moving away from the dominant lens of Eurocentric learning, schools can foster more equitable, innovative, and empowering education pathways.
Real-World Consequences of a Biased Curriculum
Research shows curriculum bias contributes to real achievement gaps. Black and ethnic-minority students in the UK suffer lower attainment where curricula lack representation. In other fields—like healthcare education—the Eurocentric bias leads to outcomes disparities, such as maternal health inequalities among ethnic-minority communities.
Classrooms that retrofit cultural relevance—not token representation—encourage better engagement, retention, and success. A representative and balanced curriculum is not just good practice—it is essential for pupil wellbeing, confidence, and long-term success.
Moving Beyond Eurocentric Learning: Building an Inclusive Curriculum
Inclusive education means more than checking boxes. It requires a fundamental shift: anti-biased values, multiple narratives, and structural change. To create meaningful impact, schools and educators need to take the following steps:
Audit the Curriculum Widely - Ask: “Is knowledge inclusive or just representational?”
Look beyond history - Include non-Western mathematicians, scientists, writers, and artists.
Diversify Resources - Supplement Shakespeare and Dickens with Malorie Blackman, Maya Angelou, and non-Western poets.
Train Staff in Critical Pedagogy - Equip teachers to challenge implicit bias and whiteness norms.
Embed Inclusion Throughout School Life - Reflect curriculum changes in assemblies, displays, and pastoral programmes and create a school culture where representation and equity are not add-ons, but the foundation.
The Role of Ribbons & Reeves in Curriculum Transformation
As a recruitment agency, Ribbons & Reeves plays a pivotal role in supporting inclusive change:
Placing Culturally Competent Educators - We match ECTs trained or passionate about inclusive and decolonised curricula with schools that align with those values.
Supporting Ongoing Development - We offer continued guidance to placed teachers through CPD opportunities focused on anti-racist teaching, inclusive pedagogy, and culturally responsive methods.
Collaborating with Schools - We work alongside leadership teams to audit and improve their curriculum, recommend diverse resources, and implement inclusive teaching strategies.
Driving the Conversation - Through our blogs, events, and social platforms, we spark discussion around curriculum equity and celebrate schools and educators leading the way.
By partnering with values-led schools and teachers, Ribbons & Reeves helps create environments where all students feel seen, valued, and challenged.
The Long-Term Benefits of an Inclusive Curriculum
Improved Student Outcomes – Learners connect with content that reflects their heritage and voices.
Enhanced Cultural Awareness – Pupils develop critical thinking, empathy, and global understanding.
Empowered Educators – Teachers feel more confident and inspired delivering relevant, authentic lessons.
Stronger School Communities – Inclusion leads to a deeper sense of belonging, safety, and cooperation.
Final Thoughts
Eurocentric learning doesn’t just harm inclusivity—it hampers educational quality, wellbeing, and equity across the system. At Ribbons & Reeves, we’re committed to placing educators who champion inclusive education and to supporting schools transitioning to anti-racist, decolonised, and empowering curricula.
Educators: Ready to work in a school that shares your values? Explore our current opportunities by clicking here.
Schools: Looking to recruit teachers who care about representation and curriculum equity?
Let’s build the future of inclusive education—together.
