This resource aims to use statistical data downloaded (at no cost) from the National Statistics website to identify areas within the Local Authority witnessing an influx of recent migrants.  From this point, students can consider the needs of these communities and whether their needs are being met. 

The resource is split into four downloadable sections:

A.     Accessing the data
B.     Importing data into a GIS
C.    Using the data within the GIS
D.    Classroom activities

Depending on the strengths and interests of the student group, desired GIS learning outcomes and the timeframe involved, classes could start at the beginning of any section.  With teacher input, a number of tangents to these learning pathways could be followed and the time dedicated to the topics increased.

The exercises utilise ESRI’s GIS package ArcGIS version 9.0.  For further information concerning this product and support materials please see the ESRI UK website

This particular activity is based on Bedford,  however the activity can be easily adapted to other settings.

The resource was written by Adrian Johnson (Bedford School)