The Agreement expresses our commitment to working with our partners (and other local authorities) to ensure that young people in care and care leavers achieve the best possible outcomes in post-16 education and training.
We understand that many of these young people face significant challenges in education and can be the most vulnerable students. Therefore, we aim to provide an enhanced level of support that is personalised and tailored to meet individual needs and requirements.
Support we offer to students:
- A one-to-one guided tour of the campus and facilities & bespoke enrolment process
Entering a new environment can be daunting, so to help reduce barriers and lower anxiety, we can offer a one-to-one guided tour of the site/s and individually introduce the young person to Staff who will be working alongside them on their course. The enrolment process can be adapted to the young person’s needs. For example, we can enrol individually at quiet times or provide support for the young person during the enrolment session.
- A designated teacher (DT) will work closely with the young person and with staff and other agencies involved in their support and care
Upon disclosure of looked-after or care-leaver status, the young person will be introduced to a DT, who will provide support and guidance throughout their time in the college.
Sophie Charles is the DT and first point of contact for young people in local authority care, care leavers, carers, and local authorities. She will arrange meetings pre- and post-enrolment (as required) to help ensure a smooth transition and monitor the young person’s progress, providing advice and guidance as required throughout the course. - Support with applications for relevant financial support
A range of bursaries is available to qualifying students, who will be supported in applying for whichever is applicable. Further guidance on financial support is available from the DT and Student Services.
- Careers Guidance and Course Advice
Ensuring that the right people are on the right course is essential, and we provide accurate and up-to-date information, advice and guidance to help young people and their carers to make well-informed decisions on courses and plans.
Services provided to Local Authorities:
- Single point of contact
Having a single point of contact will benefit local authorities by clarifying who they can liaise with regarding looked-after young people and care leavers. The DT will request information to support the young person’s claim for financial support and discuss any safeguarding matters and medical or learning support needs.
- Updates on progress, attendance and achievements
We can provide regular updates, arrange PEP meetings and either attend or provide reports for LAC Review meetings as required. In addition, we will contact social workers to discuss issues and request a meeting if the need arises during the course.
Who to contact
You can contact Sophie Charles directly on 01743 653345 or email