Moving School, College or 6th Form and Sutton's Virtual School

Moving School, College or 6th Form and Sutton's Virtual School

Our virtual school team is dedicated to supporting each care leaver and ensuring that you are provided with the information needed for a successful transition to the next stage of your education. You can access tailored advice and guidance from Sutton Virtual School up to age 25.

You can find more about the services of Virtual School from their website, and don't hesitate to contact them if you need further assistance.

To find out more about the Virtual School you can call Kate the Head Teacher directly on 020 8770 6005 or 07515137705. You can also email Kate at:kate.leyshon@cognus.org.uk

Virtual school can help with:

Choosing a destination after Year 11

Deciding which college, 6th form or training pathway you will follow after completing Year 11 is a big decision.  It will be important to consider a few options before making your final choice. Your key professionals will provide advice and guidance around destination planning as part of your Year 11 'PEP meetings.'  We will also think about this as part of your Pathway Plan where you will set out goals for your future. For some young people, the change from Year 11 to further education can be challenging; especially if you are also moving home at the same time or at a later stage. Your social worker and the Virtual School will work closely with you to make sure any changes affecting your education happen as smoothly as possible.

The government expects that all young people are in full time education, training or employment until 18, by which point you will have started on a long term pathway towards your goals for the world of work. It will be important to ensure you are 'job ready' by having an up to date CV, National Insurance Number and bank account.

Apprenticeships can be a great way to enter the workforce, providing on the job training at many levels and allowing you to earn as you train. However, lots of young people enter the workforce starting with casual work that can fit around their studies and this is a great way to earn extra money while you are studying. The Virtual School can provide additional advice and guidance about careers planning; further education options, CV's and job interviews as part of your transition to 'Leaving Care'.

Money to Study

All young people aged 16-18 who are 'Looked After' and study full time are entitled to a bursary. This  will be paid to you by your college, 6th form or training centre. Please click on the link below for more information about the bursary. If you want to continue to study at college from age 19, then there is advice available about Student Finance options to meet the costs of some courses which are no longer offered free after 19. All colleges and 6th forms have a Designated Person who supports young people in care, and care leavers and they will be able to advise you about support available.  View the government page regarding bursary funding here [External Website]