Children that have been in care before have priority school admissions arrangements.
You will need to check the 'children previously in care' box on the school application form, and provide evidence of the special guardianship order and having previously been in care, such as a letter or email from a social worker.
This evidence will be needed again when your child moves from primary to secondary school or if they have any other school changes.
You should contact us if you:
- need a letter of evidence
- do not have a copy of your special guardianship order
Every school has a named teacher to monitor and support previously looked after children.
They'll have training on trauma and attachment. They should be your first point of contact when you have questions about the child you care for and their education.
You can ask to speak with the designated teacher:
- if you are choosing a school
- to support your child's transition to a new school
- once your child has started at a new school
- if your child needs additional support in school
You may not want to mention that the child you care for is with you under a special guardianship order as you'd like them to be treated the same as other children.
We recommend that you let school know about any children who are with you under a special guardianship order as they'll make sure they get the support they need.
You can search for your school's designated teacher on the school's website, contact the school secretary, or ask us to help you find out who they are.
Schools can claim additional funding to support children that have been in care before.
You need to show evidence so the school can claim funding. If you need a letter of evidence, contact us.
Although this is not a personal budget, schools are advised to discuss with families how this funding is used to support the child in your care.
Find out more about Pupil Premium Plus on Kinship Compass and GOV.UK.
We recommend meeting regularly with the school even when things are going well so your child's needs can be identified and planned for.
You can contact the designated teacher to request a meeting to discuss support for your child and agree an education plan.
The HOPE Virtual School gives you and the child you care for under a kinship arrangement extra support.
It's a service for children and young people who are in or have left care. You can contact the HOPE for advice, information and guidance about your child's schooling and access to education.
You can also contact us for more information on how it may help the child you care for.
If you have a concern you need support with, visit the HOPE website or email post.lac@bristol.gov.uk
Find out more about education support as part of the SEND Local Offer and from Child Law Advice.
You can also find more information about school anxiety and refusal from Young Minds.