Education of
Children Living in Care

Education is our Future

Out of School Hours Learning

What a child does out of school can affect their life chances as much as what they achieve in school. Opportunities to take part in activities and clubs is critical for developing social skills, feelings of self-esteem and meeting with success.

rugby, example of an out of school activity

The PEP should look at all the learning opportunities available to the child/young person not just those that occur in school. Development of new skills and interests should be promoted, although remember there needs to be a balance between activity periods and time to rest and reflect!

Family Information Service (FIS) can provide information on youth clubs, after-school clubs and holiday services.

The Youth Service provide a comprehensive range of activities and clubs for children from 11 upwards. See also their directory of services 'Whats On', which can be found in libraries and many other venues within the borough or ask for your own copy on 020 8855 4046.

The Library Service also provide information on holiday activities in their annual publication 'Summer Sizzler'. You can obtain a copy at your local Bexley library.

The education team offer specific learning opportunities through:

Thursday club

A homework club for children living in care who are in years 6 - 11. The club is run by the education team and takes place on Thursday evening during term time from 4.30 - 7.00pm at Connexions in Northumberland Heath. Access to computers and help from trained teachers is available. Children and Young People should bring homework or coursework at any time during these times. We also try to arrange trips/fun days out during the holidays. Contact the education team if you are interested.

Right to Read

Short-term after-school projects of 6-8 weeks that are run in conjunction with Bexley Library Service. A fun way to boost literacy skills. The education team will contact carers and schools of those children in targeted groups.

11+ revision

During the summer holidays, a member of staff aims to meet all Looked After Children going into Year 6 and provide revision in preparation for the 11+ exams.

SATs revision day

During the Easter holidays, the team invites Y6 pupils to spend a day with them, preparing for SATs and taking part in fun activities. The education team will contact the children, carers and schools with details nearer the time.

GCSE revision

A member of the education team aims to meet all Bexley young people living in care in Y11 and offers additional help and advice in the run-up to GCSEs or other national test.

Other sources of support and information

Education Welfare Service can provide information on child employment, including regulations on stage performance.

Wilkinson House Family Centre provide clubs and activities to support referred vulnerable children.

SNAP are a local voluntary agency who provide support for children with special education needs (SEN).

Education of Children Living in Care