Looked After Children

Some children are unable to live with their birth parents and are cared for by the local authority. These children are known as Looked After Children. They may live with foster carers, in residential care, with relatives, or in other arrangements agreed by the local authority.

Previously Looked After Children are children who were once in the care of a local authority but are no longer looked after because they have been adopted, become subject to a Special Guardianship Order, or a Child Arrangements Order.

Children who are looked after or previously looked after may have experienced significant changes and challenges in their lives. At Fishponds CE Primary School, we recognise the importance of providing stability, understanding and support to help every child feel safe, included and able to achieve their full potential. We are committed to working closely with families, carers and professionals to ensure that each child receives the care and opportunities they need to thrive.

The Designated Teacher is a qualified teacher who acts as an advocate for children who are looked after and previously looked after. They work closely with pupils, families, carers, social workers, local authorities and school staff to ensure that children receive the support they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.

The Designated Teacher helps to remove barriers to learning, promotes high expectations, and ensures that children's individual needs are understood and met.

The Designated Teacher:

• Champions the needs and achievements of looked after and previously looked after children.
• Monitors attendance, progress, attainment and wellbeing.
• Ensures that Personal Education Plans (PEPs) are completed and reviewed regularly.
• Works closely with social workers, foster carers, parents and other professionals.
• Helps staff understand the impact that trauma, attachment difficulties and adverse childhood experiences can have on learning and behaviour.
• Supports smooth transitions between year groups and schools.
• Ensures that any additional funding, including Pupil Premium Plus, is used effectively to support pupils' individual needs.
• Promotes inclusion, belonging and positive relationships throughout school.

As a Church of England school, we are guided by our Christian values and our belief that every child is unique and precious. We are committed to providing a nurturing environment where looked after and previously looked after children feel respected, understood and empowered to achieve their full potential.

For further information about the support available, please contact the school office and ask to speak with Mrs Noble, the Designated Teacher.