Sutton's Virtual School for Children Looked After and Care Leavers

Role of Sutton Virtual School for care leavers

Our Sutton Virtual School team is an education service 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 Sutton Virtual School from their website [External link], and can find the Education Advisor contact details on the Contact Us [External Link] page.

Education pathways 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 Sutton Virtual School Education Advisor will provide advice and guidance around destination planning as part of your Year 11 Personal Education Plan (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 Sutton 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. Sutton Virtual School can provide additional advice and guidance about careers planning; further education options, CV's and job interviews as part of your leaving care transition.

All young people aged 16-18 who are in care 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]

Education pathways into higher education

Going to university can be an exciting opportunity and is something that many care experienced young people successfully achieve. University is not the right pathway for everyone, but if you are thinking about higher education, Sutton Virtual School can help you explore your options and make informed decisions about your future.

Your Sutton Virtual School Education Advisor can provide advice and guidance to help you research courses and universities, understand entry requirements and choose a pathway that matches your interests, strengths and career goals. We can also support you through the UCAS application process, including personal statement guidance and help to prepare for interviews where these form part of the application process.

There is a range of financial support available to care experienced students attending university. Sutton Virtual School can provide information and guidance about Student Finance England, tuition fee and maintenance loans, university accommodation arrangements and the additional support that may be available to care leavers. Many universities offer care leaver bursaries, scholarships, accommodation support and dedicated support staff, and we can help you understand what funding and support you may be entitled to before you apply.

We know that starting university can feel like a big step. Sutton Virtual School works closely with your Personal Advisor, social worker and Leaving Care Team to help ensure you have the information, support and encouragement you need to succeed in higher education and achieve your ambitions.