What is the Personal Education Plan?

If you are in care, either because your parents agreed under S.20 or because of a care order, your local authority will look after your educational needs. They must make sure you have a Personal Education Plan (PEP). This plan sets clear goals for your learning, any activities outside school, and your personal and behaviour targets. Your social worker has to make sure you get a PEP within 20 school days of becoming a looked-after child.

Who is the Virtual School Headteacher?

The Virtual School Headteacher (VSH) is an experienced teacher who works for your local council to support the education of all looked-after children in the area. The VSH will work with your school to make sure your Personal Education Plan is being followed and that you’re getting the support you need to do well.

Guidance

Please see relevant guidance that sets out the law in this area:

• Promoting the education of looked-after children and previously looked-after children
• The Children Act 1989 guidance and regulations Volume 2: care planning, placement and case review (pages 34-38)