Looked After Children and Care Leavers at Croydon College

At Croydon College, we are committed to supporting all students in achieving their full potential by providing tailored support to help them gain qualifications and progress successfully to their next steps.

We understand that Looked After Children and Care Leavers may face additional challenges, so we work closely with carers, social workers, virtual schools, and other professionals to create a bespoke support plan that meets their individual needs. Each Looked After Child and Care Leaver at Croydon College is supported by a designated member of staff who ensures they receive the right assistance throughout their educational journey.

As an education provider, Croydon College plays a crucial role in ensuring that Looked After Children and Care Leavers are supported to be healthy, stay safe, enjoy learning, achieve their goals, contribute positively to society, and secure economic wellbeing, in line with the principles of Every Child Matters.

Principles:
Our approach to supporting Looked After Children and Care Leavers is based on:

• Prioritising education
• Promoting attendance
• Providing targeted support
• Maintaining high expectations
• Challenging attitudes to promote inclusion
• Ensuring stability and continuity
• Implementing early intervention strategies
• Listening to students’ voices
• Promoting health and wellbeing
• Reducing exclusions and supporting long-term success

Our Support for Looked After Children and Care Leavers

At Croydon College, we are dedicated to helping every Looked After Child and Care Leaver achieve the highest possible standards, whether that means progressing in further education, higher education, or their chosen career path.

We will:

• Work in partnership with carers, social workers, and external professionals, as well as college staff, to provide appropriate in-house referrals and support.
• Ensure that a designated staff member is identified assist Looked After Children and Care Leavers throughout their time at college.
• Support the Personal Education Plan (PEP), ensuring it accurately reflects the student’s progress and aspirations.

This commitment aligns with Croydon College’s policies and ensures that every Looked After Child and Care Leaver receives the support they need to succeed.

For further information on the support available to Looked After Children and Care Leavers at Croydon College, please contact our dedicated support team.