Children in care, often referred to as “looked after children,” face unique challenges within the education system. A significant concern is the breakdown of school placements, leading to disruptions that can hinder both academic progress and emotional well-being. Recognising the causes and implementing effective support systems is essential to provide these children with the stable education they deserve.
The Impact of Placement Breakdowns
When school placements break down, looked after children may experience:
- Academic Regression: Transitions between schools can introduce varying curriculum and teaching methods, making it difficult for children to keep pace with their studies.
- Emotional Distress: Frequent changes can lead to feelings of insecurity, loss of friendships, and a diminished sense of belonging, exacerbating existing trauma.
- Behavioural Challenges: Instability may manifest in behavioural issues, potentially leading to further exclusions and a cycle of placement disruptions.
Causes of Placement Breakdowns
Several factors contribute to the instability of school placements for looked after children:
- Frequent Moves in Foster Care: Transitions between foster homes often necessitate school changes, disrupting educational continuity.
- Lack of Specialised Support: Without adequate support for special educational needs or emotional and behavioural difficulties, schools may struggle to accommodate these children, leading to placement breakdowns.
- Inadequate Planning and Communication: Poor coordination between child welfare services and educational institutions can result in mismatched placements that do not cater to the child’s specific needs.
The Role of Pupil Referral Units (PRUs)
In the UK, Pupil Referral Units (PRUs) serve as alternative education provisions for children unable to attend mainstream schools. They offer:
- Tailored Educational Programs: Customised curricula that address individual learning styles and requirements.
- Therapeutic Support: Access to counselling and mental health services to address emotional and behavioural challenges.
- Smaller Class Sizes: Providing a more supportive and focused learning environment.
However, reliance on PRUs should not be the default solution. The goal should be to integrate children into stable, mainstream educational settings whenever possible, with PRUs serving as transitional support.
The Importance of Wraparound Care
Implementing wraparound care approaches can significantly reduce placement breakdowns. This involves comprehensive, individualised support plans addressing all aspects of a child’s life, including education, mental health, and social needs. Studies have shown that such approaches lead to:The Guardian
- Improved Stability: Children receiving wraparound care experience fewer placement changes and more consistent schooling.
- Enhanced Outcomes: Better academic performance and social integration.
- Family Engagement: Involving foster families in the educational process fosters a supportive home environment conducive to learning.The Guardian
TLC LIVE’s Commitment to Supporting Looked After Children
At TLC LIVE, we understand the unique challenges faced by looked after children and offer solutions that promote stability and academic success:
- Customised Online Tutoring: Our sessions are tailored to meet the individual needs of each child, ensuring they receive the support necessary to thrive academically.
- Flexible Scheduling: Recognising the potential instability in these children’s lives, our online platform allows for adaptable tutoring sessions that can adjust to changing circumstances. We don’t require long-term commitments, enabling lessons to be set up within 48 hours and cancellations within 24 hours free of charge.
- Collaborative Approach: We work closely with carers, social workers, and educational authorities to create a cohesive support system around each child.
- Focus on Emotional Well-being: Our tutors are trained to provide not only expert tuition but also mentorship and emotional support, fostering a positive learning experience.
Conclusion
Addressing school placement breakdowns for looked after children requires a multifaceted approach, including stable placements, specialised support, and collaborative efforts among all stakeholders. TLC LIVE is committed to being part of this solution, offering tailored online tutoring services that adapt to each child’s unique needs, ensuring they can achieve their full potential.
Learn more about our tutoring for schools.
Learn more about our Online School.