Looking after learning: making a difference for young people in care

Abstract

This paper reports on one initiative, the Looking After Learning Project, led by an LEA educational psychologist, to investigate and assist with the promotion of the educational experiences of young people being ‘looked after’ by a large local authority in England. The project has highlighted many issues, also reflected in national concern and research on the education of young people in care, including: available educational information; the importance of working with carers e.g. foster parents and residential social workers; the involvement of schools; and inter-agency liaison. These issues are discussed with the author suggesting recommendations which could make a difference to the educational experiences of these young people at both an individual and a policy level. However, it is noted that implementing research findings and influencing service planning and practice is not always easy, requiring commitment, especially of personnel and finance.