Who do we work with?

Care Experienced age 16 – 21 (25 with an EHCP) whose chosen route at college and university is through the following: 

• Courses that count towards UCAS points
• GCSE retakes where available
• A Levels
• Full-time vocational qualifications

How can we help? 

Support with educational transitions

• Review Post 16 educational options and help identify what and where to study
• Assist to access and sustain a chosen course in sixth-form, college, or university

Support with study

• Advice and guidance when difficulties arise in education (e.g. getting behind with coursework, or finding a subject difficult)
• Signposting to the right support for those who require help with English and maths support, study skills, revision and exam preparation
• Where possible, attending EHCP reviews and liaising with SEN teams to ensure the needs and voice of the Young Person is heard

Help with UCAS

• Searching for the right university and course
• Support with UCAS application and writing the Personal Statement
• Support with the student finance application
• Advocating for the care leaver

Liaison with other workers to support YP in their studies

• Social Worker
• Leaving Care Team PA
• Careers Service
• School teachers and Heads of Year
• College tutors and student services
• University admissions and support staff

Educational cost

• Advice on applying for the Vulnerable Young Persons Bursary (for travel, books and midday meal)
• We may be able to assist with the cost of Educational Trips and Visits, Books, and Educational Software where essential to the course (to be verified with course leader)

Please note that The Virtual School do not provide the following:

• Alternative education at Post-16 (support is supplementary to school or college place)
• Academic subject tuition for students at Key Stage 5 and beyond
• Laptops (these will be considered on an individual basis according to need, and taking into account attendance and engagement with education)
• Starter Kits for College (these are funded through the VYP Bursary) 

For those who are ‘NEET’ (not in education, employment or training) Adviza are the provider but we maintain contact and do our best to re-engage with education or training.

For those who wish to do Apprenticeships or find Employment Adviza can offer guidance.