Education

At Howestead Lodge we believe that education is fundamental to the development of the children and young people that we care for and that, therefore, we should be making every effort to effectively promote their full potential in this area of their lives.  We recognise that there is an increasing need for us to work in close collaboration with the schools attended by the children and young people that we care for and that establishing and maintaining effective communication with educational staff and professionals is vital.

Looked After Children are frequently disadvantaged educationally, usually as a result of non attendance or loss of continuity following numerous changes of education placement.  This can lead to children and young people suffering from low levels of self-esteem and confidence and they can both feel and be labelled as under achievers as a result of repeated failure.

In order to counteract this, each child and young person has a Personal Education Plan (PEP), which sets out a record of their educational achievements, needs and aspirations.  The staff familiarise themselves with the educational histories of each child and young person and any identified needs.  The Personal Education Plan will not only address issues of individual need, but will also look at how best these can be met, such as whether a particular educational placement is that which is most suited to meeting the needs of the child or young person.

We believe that staff should be effective in their approach towards children and young people with particular needs and support requirements; providing them with praise for their specific achievements and encouraging them to take pride in their success.

The children and young people will be given the support necessary to facilitate their prompt arrival at school, wearing the correct uniform with all the equipment they need to complete the educational activities on any given day.  Attendance at school will be monitored and appointed Link Workers will take responsibility for liaising with Teachers, Year Heads, Head Teachers, Social Workers and parents as and when this is necessary.

Howestead Lodge will endeavour to create and provide an environment which is educationally stimulating by providing appropriate books and educational equipment.  The necessary space, time and environment will also be provided for completion of homework and revision, and the staff will be available to assist as and when this is required.

The staff members are expected to take an active interest in the education of individual children and young people, attending parent’s evenings and educational reviews as required.

The children and young people are encouraged to participate in extra curricular activities wherever possible.