Education

We are very proud of the fact that during our recent inspection by the National Care Standards Commission (our regulatory body), we scored the highest possible score in relation to meeting the educational needs of each child in our care. The National Care Standards Commission Inspector commended Premier Foster Care on the fact that our foster carers are actively encouraged to be involved in the educational lives of children and receive support from the National Teaching and Advisory Service (NT&AS) in fulfilling this activity.

It is an unfortunate fact that many looked after children experience disruption of their schooling through placement moves. They also make up a disproportionate number of children who are temporarily or permanently excluded from school. This not only affects their academic achievement, but contributes to them becoming socially excluded and places them at greater risk of engaging in activities which may be detrimental to their health and future well being.

At Premier Foster Care we understand that access to a good education has a direct impact on a child’s well being, including a sense of self worth and self confidence. It can enable integration within a social network and encourage a sense of being a valued member of the community, as well as helping to establish positive peer relationships.

Lack of detailed and quantitative educational assessment may lead to the extent of a child’s learning difficulties not being recognised. The same lack of consistent assessment may also lead to a failure to recognise a child’s gifts and strengths.

Being aware this, Premier Foster Care ensures that every child placed with our agency has an allocated teacher from NT&AS whose role it is to work closely with the child, their foster carers and all other relevant professionals, in order to promote and address the educational needs of every child in place.

The allocated teacher monitors the child’s progress and, amongst other things, offers practical support in relation to schoolwork, homework and exam preparation.