As part of our offer, you will receive access to Virtual School where you can seek advice and support. The Virtual School Head role has been extended to specifically include championing the attendance, attainment, and progress of all children in kinship care. This means that all children in kinship arrangements, regardless of legal status, will benefit from the adaptation of the strategic role. Kinship families with a Special Guardian or Child Arrangement Order, regardless of whether the child was previously in local authority care, will also benefit from advice and information, upon request, from the Virtual School to help them navigate the education system. 

Please click on the Virtual School Factsheet to find out more about the role and extended duties of Virtual School. 

Schools will understand the challenges and benefits of kinship carers and the children and young people they care for. Kinship carers may be able to access support through schools based breakfast clubs, which provide a safe and structured start to the day for children and young people. These clubs can help to improve attendance, concentration, and overall wellbeing. Schools are encouraged to consider the needs of kinship families when allocating places, particularly where children may benefit from additional routine and pastoral support. Further information about wraparound childcare, including breakfast clubs can be found here. 

Children and young people in kinship care can access a range of youth services across Telford and Wrekin, including targeted support, enrichment activities, and safe spaces to build relationships and develop skills. The Youth Offer aims to promote inclusion, resilience, and positive engagement. Kinship carers are encouraged to explore local opportunities via the Telford and Wrekin Youth Offer.