Supporting Children with a Social Worker

Following a national extension of the Department for Education’s guidance, all Virtual Schools are now responsible for promoting the educational outcomes of children with a social worker.

At AfC Virtual School, we work in close partnership with Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) to provide targeted educational support for children subject to Child in Need and Child Protection plans. Within the local authority, we offer a range of initiatives aimed at improving attendance, reducing exclusions, and raising attainment for this vulnerable cohort.

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Safeguarding Clinics (RBWM Schools Only)

Our Safeguarding Clinics are available to schools in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) and offer a focused 25-minute session to discuss concerns and work collaboratively on practical strategies to support children with a social worker. These clinics provide a confidential space to reflect, problem-solve, and strengthen multi-agency working.

Sessions are led by senior members of AfC Virtual School and Safeguarding teams, including Suzanne Parrott (Executive Headteacher), Linda Gutteridge (Associate Director for Support and Safeguarding), and Ruth Gusterson (Deputy Headteacher, Extended Duties – Children with a Social Worker).

View the Safeguarding Clinics flyer to learn more, or sign up for a clinic session here.
You can also visit our Designated Safeguarding Leads training page for related CPD opportunities.

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Consultations for Social Workers

AfC Virtual School provides consultations for social workers, offering tailored advice, guidance, and practical strategies to support the education of children with a social worker. These sessions help professionals navigate educational challenges and strengthen multi-agency collaboration.

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Transition Hub

Our Transition Hub delivers personalised support to help children with a social worker manage key educational transitions successfully — from starting school to moving between key stages or settings. The Hub works in partnership with professionals and families to promote stability and reduce disruption.

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Attendance Matters

Attendance is a vital contributor to academic success. At AfC Virtual School, we monitor attendance daily in collaboration with our partners at Welfare Call and celebrate pupils who show improved or outstanding attendance.

To learn more about our attendance work and outcomes, please see our Spring Term Report and Summer Term Report.

We are grateful to Designated Teachers, Designated Safeguarding Leads, Social Workers, parents and carers for their continued dedication to promoting regular school attendance.