Children In Care (CIC) and Previously Looked After Children (PLAC)
At Brunel Field, we recognise that children who are looked after by the local authority (Children in Care - CiC) and children who are adopted or have previously been looked after (PLAC), may have different and specific needs arising from their past experiences.
We aim to identify each child's additional needs as they arise and provide the teaching and learning they need to enable them to fully participate and access the curriculum. This is done in partnership with adoptive parents and carers as you are the experts in your child and know their needs the best. We understand that behaviour is a form of communication and use a trauma informed approach when dealing with any incidents. We would always inform you of things as they happen and work with you to ensure the child is supported in the best way possible.
CiC have funding which comes directly from Bristol City Council and is monitored by the Hope School through Personal Education Plan meetings (PEP).
PLAC have funding which comes directly to the school and can be used to support the child in the most effective and appropriate way. This is known as Pupil Premium Plus funding (PP+). Schools have flexibility in how they use PP+ funding, but it should be directed towards improving the educational attainment and progress of PLAC pupils, including addressing their social and emotional needs. Schools are also expected to work in partnership with parents/guardians regarding how the funding is used.
For us to be able to access funding for PLAC, we need parents and guardians to self-declare their child’s status. This information is recorded on the School Census which then allows funding to be allocated.
Our Offer to CiC and PLAC
In addition, we will support CIC and PLAC by:
• ensuring an effective induction when they join the school or if they come into care whilst already on the school roll.
• ensuring that each CIC has a high quality Personal Education Plan (PEP) in line with statutory requirements.
• ensuring that PLAC have a high quality Education Plan that is regularly reviewed.
• ensuring that every CIC/PLAC has a trusted adult identified within school.
• making it a priority to know the children well and to build strong relationships.
• developing strong relationships with families, carers, local authorities including the Virtual School Team and specialist agencies.
• engaging CIC /PLAC in learning outside the classroom and after-school activities.
• supporting promptly if concerns emerge such as with mental health or attendance.
• giving integrated but low profile support in school for each child so that they are not made to feel different from other children.
• identifying and planning for all transitions e.g. moving to a new year group.
• regularly monitor academic progress and attendance and report to relevant parties as required.
The Designated Teacher (DT) for CiC and PLAC at Brunel Field is Julie Waldren. She can be contacted through the school office.
Throughout the school year, you will be offered meetings to discuss your child's individual needs. When appropriate, other professionals, such as social workers, will be invited to meetings in school. The minimum offer for these meetings is described below:
CiC will have two PEP meetings a year with two possible interim PEP meetings. The timing of these meetings would depend on when the child starts in the school.
When appropriate, the DT will attend any additional SEND meetings to ensure a full understanding of the child's needs.
If at any point you would like to discuss your child's progress or needs, please email the DT through the school office.
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