Secondary (11 to 16 years)
The Virtual School ensures that children in care are supported throughout their secondary education, focusing on improving academic outcomes, attendance and overall well-being.
Key areas of support for children in secondary school include the following:
- Personal Education Plans (PEPs)
- Each child has a PEP that is updated regularly and involves the school, social workers and foster carers. The PEP outlines academic goals and identifies strategies to address any barriers to learning.
- See: promoting the education of looked-after and previously looked-after children
- Intervention and support
- If a child in care is struggling academically or socially, the Virtual School works with the school to put in place additional support, such as tutoring, mentoring, or pastoral care
- Monitoring attendance and achievement
- The Virtual School monitors the attendance, progress and achievement of children in care in secondary school to ensure they remain on track. If a child is falling behind, the Virtual School intervenes by working with the school to address any issues.
- Extracurricular activities
- The Virtual School encourages participation in extracurricular activities, such as sports, arts, or clubs to enhance social skills, build confidence and provide a well-rounded education
- Support during transitions
- The transition from primary to secondary school can be challenging for children in care. The Virtual School ensures that these transitions are smooth by coordinating with schools to plan for this change, providing additional support and continuity of care.
Further information
- Email: VSAdmin@swindon.gov.uk