School move guidance for adopted children and young people
Contents
- Overview
- Tips for parents / carers
- Questions to ask when visiting a potential school
- What to look out for
Overview
As parents we have to make a number of key choices on behalf of our children, one of those choices being finding a suitable school.
Below is some important information that will help you in identifying the right school for your child.
Tips for parents / carers when looking for a school
- Check out the school's most recent Ofsted report by looking on the schools' website or at Ofsted. For looked after children, the Government recommend looking at 'Good' or 'Outstanding' schools.
- Arrange a visit to the school and be prepared to ask questions that will clarify that it is the right school.
- Apply for a school place. Looked after children and previously looked after children have been given priority in the school admission process.
- When the school has been identified and a place has been offered, request a meeting with key adults such as adopters, previous foster carers, child's social worker and previous schools.
- Think about planning the transition. For example visits to the new school, spending a day there, take pictures of the school and staff and walk or drive the new route.
Questions to ask when visiting a potential school
- How many looked after / adopted children do you have?
- Who is the designated teacher for adopted children?
- What experience do you have of adopted children?
- What support mechanisms do you have in place for these groups?
- How do you use your Pupil Premium Plus?
What to look out for
- A school with a good understanding of attachment and the impact of early trauma on learning
- A designated teacher who is trained in the needs of looked after and adopted children
- Extensive use of nurture groups
- A relational based discipline system
- Concrete policies and procedures
- Willingness to listen