A Virtual School is a local authority service that works to improve the educational outcomes of children and young people who have a social worker, are in care (our looked-after children), have left care (care leavers), or have previously been in care.
The Virtual School does not teach pupils directly. Instead, it acts as a champion for vulnerable children in education by:
- Promoting high aspirations and educational achievement
- Monitoring attendance, attainment and progress
- Supporting schools, colleges and early years settings to meet pupils' needs
- Advising on the effective use of funding, such as Pupil Premium Plus
- Providing training and guidance for education professionals and carers
- Working with social care, health services and other agencies to ensure children receive the support they need
- Helping to remove barriers to learning, including issues relating to wellbeing, transitions and inclusion
The overall aim of Blackpool Virtual School is to ensure that our Blackpool vulnerable children and young people have the same opportunities to succeed in education as their peers and are supported to achieve their full potential.
Contact: virtual.school@blackpool.gov.uk