Children in Care
Banwell School Statement
Our school aims to promote high aspirations for children who are placed in care and previously looked, to ensure all pupils are given the opportunity to succeed and develop their full potential. We believe that every individual is capable of achieving and constantly striving for excellence.
It is the responsibility of of the designated teacher and the Inclusion team, to work with all school staff to promote the educational achievement and pastoral welfare of Children Looked After (CLA) and Previously Looked After (Post LAC) that are part of our school community. we recognise that school plays a vital role in providing a stable base for LAC and Post LAC and in promoting their academic, social, emotional and spiritual development. We promote staff training in their specific needs so that we are sensitive to the barriers of learning that LAC and Post LAC may experience.
Personal Education Plans (PEP's)
All looked after children have a care plan. A PEP is a statutory requirement to ensure that a record is maintained regarding the child's educational progress and thus it forms an integral part of the child's overall care plan. The PEP should detail what needs to happen in order for the looked after child to fulfil their potential. The Local Authority are under a duty to ensure that the PEP fully reflects the educational needs of the child remains relevant to the child's age, ability and aptitude and is implemented effectively. PEP's occur twice a year and are usually held at the child's school. Carers and agencies that support the child are invited to attend.
Objectives of a PEP
- Raise educational achievement and aspirations.
- Identify and remove barriers to learning.
- Ensure the right support is in place for each child.
- Promote strong partnership between home, school and professionals.
- Listen to and reflect the child's views and wishes.
- Monitor progress and celebrate success.
PEPs help ensure that every looked after child has the support, opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive in school and reach their full potential.
Pupil Premium Plus Spending
All children who are Looked After have minimum of 2 PEPs in an academic year. a joint-planning approach is taken to ensure that the PP+ funding is used in a way which will have maximum impact on the child's academic. social and emotional progress.
The funding is used for a variety of interventions and support and is bespoke to the child's individual needs. This may include:
- 1-1 or small group academic support or access to an intervention
- 1-1 or small group pastoral support or interventions
- Supporting a child's ability to access wider school opportunities such as music lessons
- Subsidising school trips and wrap around care
