Education is the key to happiness – that means doing what you want, when you want, getting your dream job, the house, the car, the holidays... the lot! The local authority has a responsibility to do all it can to make sure you continue school with as little upset as possible.

Whilst you are in care, you will be part of the virtual school. Our young people in care have a Virtual School Lead. They are your education parents in the local authority. They will help support your time in school and make sure that you get the best opportunities, whilst you are there. That doesn’t mean you won’t be in a real school too; it just means you will have a supporter in the local authority championing your education and working with your school to make sure they meet your needs.

Going to school is an opportunity for you to gain the qualifications and opportunities you need to succeed. YOU have a responsibility to make sure you go to school every day. If there is a reason that you do not want to go to school, please speak to your social worker or foster carer – they will be able to help you sort out whatever the problem is.

All schools have a designated teacher for children and young people who are in our care. Designated teachers are teachers who can work with you to understand, from your point of view, what it feels like to be in our care. They are there to look after your best interests and support you if you need any help. They won’t know everything about your background, but they will try to understand things you might be going through.

Personal education plan (PEP)

A PEP is part of your care plan that helps check whether you’re getting the support you need to be successful and the best you can be in school.

Your PEP will include:

• what you enjoy at school
• what you are good at in school
• any areas you would like to improve on
• details of any extra support you need
• plans for your future, including what you would like to do when you leave school.
• how your carer will help with your education and interests, like hobbies and sports.Anything else you think is important

What your carers can do to support you

• Your carers are there to support you to get the best from your school and to enjoy your time at school.
• Your carers will probably visit your school from time to time to make sure that you are doing ok there. They will help you get to school every day.
• They will help you get organised for school by helping you sort out clothes, school equipment that you might need, etc.
• Your carers should support you in doing homework by giving you a quiet place to study and by giving you help if you need it.