Costa, Alyson Jayne; (2009) Facilitating participation of looked after children at GCSE : young peoples perspectives, in one local authority. Doctoral thesis , Institute of Education, University of London.

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Abstract

Raising the attainment of 'Looked After Children' is a high priority in national and local policy. Education is especially important for 'Looked After Children' given their likely adverse early life experiences, but despite numerous government reforms, educational outcomes for 'Looked After Children' continue to be poor when compared to outcomes for all children. The study reported here explores participation in GCSE (or equivalent) programmes of study, a critical initial stage in enabling participation in further education or training. Fifteen looked after young people, from one local authority, who had taken GCSEs were interviewed about their perceptions of the experiences that had led to their participation in exams and programmes of study. Interview transcripts were subjected to Thematic Analysis. Four key themes related to the concept of resilience were indicated, highlighting the significance of: relationships; academic support; personal characteristics and the management of change in care placements. Themes are described in relation to relevant literature. There is an additional focus on the practical application of results for those working with 'Looked After Children', considered as a set of recommendations for practice at a strategic level, and also for groups of professionals including Educational Psychologists, Social Services staff, foster carers and residential key workers and school staff.

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