Admissions

Children in care are given the highest priority in school admissions. The legal requirements for their placement are outlined in the School Admissions Code, which applies to all maintained schools, academies, and free schools.

The Virtual School Head (VSH) plays a key role in ensuring the following:

• Fair Access Protocols do not apply to looked after children, and they are considered ‘excepted pupils’ under infant class size regulations

• The local authority, as corporate parent, acts without delay when a looked after child is without an appropriate school place. The authority should use its powers of direction promptly if needed

• School choices are made collaboratively, involving the child’s social worker, carers, and, where appropriate, birth parents. The VSH should normally be consulted to avoid choosing a school that may not meet the child’s needs

• Delegated authority for school choice is clearly recorded within the child’s permanence plan, which forms part of their wider care plan

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Attendance

AfC Virtual School considers regular attendance essential for academic progress and personal development.

• We monitor attendance daily in partnership with Welfare Call

• We celebrate and reward improved and outstanding attendance

• We are grateful to Designated Teachers, Social Workers, and Carers who consistently encourage and support full attendance

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Exclusions

Exclusion should always be a last resort for children in care. Schools and local authorities must follow the statutory guidance:
Exclusions from maintained schools, academies and pupil referral units in England (Department for Education).

Key expectations:

• Headteachers should, wherever possible, avoid excluding a looked after child

• The Virtual School should be informed at the earliest opportunity if there are concerns about behaviour

• The Virtual School Head will work with the school and professionals to:

  • Arrange additional support or assessment such as in-class strategies, therapeutic input, or a suitable alternative provision to address the causes of behaviour

  • Put in place education continuity plans if an exclusion occurs to ensure the child continues to receive appropriate learning

We are available to offer advice, attend professionals’ meetings, and help schools consider proactive alternatives to exclusion. Early contact with AfC Virtual School is always encouraged.