Improving outcomes for children in care

Schools that are improving outcomes for children in care have the following in common:

• high expectations of what children in care can achieve, linked to excellent whole school approaches to teaching and learning.
• rigorous target setting and monitoring protocols that focus on academic progress, behaviour for learning, and attendance.
• strong information gathering procedures that provide a comprehensive picture of the child’s needs, including identification of prior learning from previous settings.
• effective timely assessment systems that identify gaps in learning and support personalised planning.
• evidence of pupil voice throughout the education planning cycle, with the child having a strong say in the decision making process.  
• strong emphasis on supporting the personal development and wellbeing of children in care within a comprehensive universal pastoral system.
• effective multi-agency working, with clearly established communication systems.
• minimal use of exclusion, through effective use of early intervention and behaviour support programmes.
• strong leadership from the designated teacher and governor.
• positive engagement with parents and carers.
• wider opportunities for children in care outside the school day.