A poster and research leaflet that describe a project exploring efforts to combat disengagement with education among care leavers.
The project focused on working with learners to overcome the specific barriers to learning faced by individual care leavers. This was done through the application of an inclusive educational framework via a multi-agency approach, raising awareness among teaching and support staff, and to raise staff and learner aspirations. Semi-structured interviews were done with teachers and learners, leading to thematic analysis and CPD for staff members.
The project found that the use of the framework led to an increase in the profile of care leavers within the college, greater retention rates of students who were care leavers, and both students and teaching staff who were interviewed felt that listening and collaborating enabled learners to develop their own solutions. Young people felt that their voice was being heard, and reported the benefits of accessing a consistent designated worker.
EMCETT