Helping children to get ready for the new school year as a Foster Carer

A new school year can be exciting for some children, but for many foster children it can also bring uncertainty and heightened anxiety. Returning to school often triggers worries about meeting new teachers and peers, and even small changes such as a different classroom layout can leave a child feeling unsettled. For children who have experienced trauma, transitions can activate their stress response, making it harder for them to regulate their emotions.

A predictable routine can help reduce the fear of the unknown. In the days before term begins, gradually re‑establishing morning and bedtime routines and talking through what a typical school day looks like can make the transition feel more manageable. Preparing school items together can also help children feel more in control and confident about the return to school.

Strong communication between foster carers and school staff ensures everyone responds to a child’s needs consistently. Teachers should be aware of any emotional or behavioural triggers, as well as who to contact for day‑to‑day decisions. It is also helpful to check what additional support the school can offer, such as pastoral or SEN provision.

For some children, getting through the school gates is a significant achievement, the aim isn’t for everything to go perfectly but help the child feel supported.

Beacon’s Commitment

At Beacon Fostering, we understand how significant the back-to-school period can be for children and foster carers. Your Supervising Social Worker is available to help with school communication, PEP preparation, support plans, strategies for managing anxiety, and advocacy with education teams.

By working closely with schools and providing consistent support at home, we can help children feel safe, supported, and ready to thrive in the new school year.