Exploring Practice: Understanding educational barriers for children in kinship care
In partnership with St Mary’s University, Surrey Virtual School and Achieving for Children Virtual School launched a research project to explore the educational barriers faced by children in kinship care. Through interviews, surveys and training with school staff, the project assessed awareness and understanding of kinship care in education settings. It also engaged directly with kinship carers to identify their needs and priorities.
A key outcome was the creation of a Padlet, an online resource hub offering accessible, targeted information and guidance for kinship carers. Each Virtual School developed a Padlet tailored to local support services, combining general advice with specific educational resources. These Padlets are actively shared with schools and professionals to improve access to support and raise awareness of kinship care across the education sector. Join this event to learn more about Padlets and how they can be used to support children in kinship care.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
- Understand the wide variety of challenges that children face in kinship care
- Learn from examples in how social workers, councils and schools can support the development of children in kinship care.
- Insights into developing support plans for kinship families as part of a local offer
PRESENTERS
Rebecca Lloyd, Previously Looked After Children Lead Teacher, Achieving for Children Virtual School
Rebecca’s background is in education, having taught for over 20 years in mainstream secondary and alternative settings alongside responsibilities in safeguarding. In her current role, she champions the educational attainment of previously looked after and kinship care children.
Ellie Bissell, Education Support Officer, Surrey Virtual School
Ellie’s role has expanded to include responsibilities around children living in kinship care, in line with new statutory duties. She provides information, advice and guidance to parents, guardians, schools, and professionals, helping to ensure these children receive the support they need to thrive in education.
Jessica Wilson, Education Adviser, Surrev Virtual School
With nearly 20 years’ experience in education, Jessica works to promote inclusive policies and practices that address the vulnerabilities of children affected by adverse childhood experiences. She drives to improve educational engagement and outcomes, and expand access to guidance for kinship carers.
WHO'S IT FOR
This session is relevant to social workers, senior social workers, team managers, advanced practitioners, and department heads working with kinship families. It will also be relevant to education professionals, kinship carers or those working with children and young people.
FEES
Members: FREE (don't forget to log in to your account to receive your discount)
Non-members: £20+VAT.
Places on this event are limited, so early booking is recommended.
CONTACT
Telephone: 02075207520 / 0310
Email: events@corambaaf.org.uk
£20.00