Previously looked after children

From September 2018, schools have had a duty to ensure the wellbeing of those children on roll who are classed as PLAC as well as LAC.

Coventry Virtual School is able to offer support and guidance to Schools and Parents with CPLA.

How can we help?

• Advice, training and support to professionals, schools, colleges and families who have a child who is CPLA.
• Be part of the final Personal Education Plan (PEP) for each child as they leave care.
• Work creatively with parents, carers, and schools within Coventry to help overcome any barriers to successful learning.
• Support the transitions of children where a change of school takes place and also year to year within a school.
• Support parents and carers with planning for the education of their children, and to signpost to other sources of support, information and advice.
• Advocate for the child in progressing their learning opportunities.

Parents and carers

• Make contact with the school via the designated teacher or headteacher to notify them their child is CPLA.
• Work in partnership with their child’s school to ensure the best education opportunities and any barriers to learning are identified and overcome.
• Share any useful resources or information with the school.

Schools

• Comply with national guidance
• Ensure the wellbeing of those children on roll who are classed as CPLA, recognising that they may be impacted by early childhood adverse experiences.
• Have a named member of staff with responsibility for promoting the educational achievement of CPLA and share this on the school website.
• Ensure the October census reflects those children who are CPLA.
• Review policies and procedures to ensure they reflect the needs and challenges of CPLA.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding the background of CPLA.
• Prioritise children previously looked after for school places.
• Involve parents/carers in decisions about their child’s education.
• Ensure the best education opportunities and any barriers to learning are identified, exploring all avenues of support so as to avoid exclusion.
• Consider provision for all CPLA including those who are more able.

Good communication and multi-agency working are essential in helping achieve the best possible outcomes.

We want to ensure that all looked after children and those leaving care, reach their full potential and enjoy the same opportunities in life as their peers.