Why do looked after children frequently fail to make academic progress and achieve their full potential?
Young people and children in care are among the most vulnerable in schools. Many have experienced tremendous personal upheaval and are suffering from confusion and stress arising from physical or sexual abuse, neglect, rejection, bereavement or family breakdown. National research and inspection has highlighted the important factors which work against the success of looked after children at school. In the past, carers, teachers and social workers have not given sufficient priority to looked after children’s educational progress and attainment, tending to focus more on issues relating to their care plan, parental contact and the relationship with their extended family. Isle of Wight Council recognises that looked after children’s needs will be better met if all the agencies supporting them work together. Isle of Wight Council have developed a specialist Looked After Children’s Education Service (LACES) with qualified teachers and support staff. At local education authority (LEA) level, i
