Supporting a Foster Child’s Education: A Guide for Beacon Fostering Families
Education plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s future, and as a foster parent, you are a key part of that journey. While there may be obstacles along the way, your support can make a lasting difference in helping a foster child succeed at school—and beyond.
Understanding the Educational Challenges for Looked-After Children
Many children in care have experienced instability before arriving in your home. Frequent moves between placements often lead to disrupted schooling, and in some cases, these young people may have missed out on vital stages of their learning.
For some, school is more than just a place to learn—it’s a safe space, a place to see friends, and a brief escape from a difficult home life. But transitioning into a new school, especially after trauma, can be overwhelming. They’re adjusting to new surroundings, new people, and new expectations, all while processing major changes in their personal life.
It’s no surprise, then, that getting a foster child into school and keeping them engaged can be a daily challenge. They might be anxious about making new friends, worried about others knowing they’re in foster care, or feeling hopeless after falling behind academically.
At Beacon Fostering, we’re committed to helping children with complex needs thrive, and we know that strong educational support is a huge part of that.
How Foster Carers Can Help Children Thrive at School
Here are some practical and compassionate ways you can support the education of the child in your care:
1. Let Them Choose How to Introduce You
Every child will feel differently about how they want their fostering situation discussed at school. Some may prefer to call you “mum” or “dad” at the school gates, while others might feel more comfortable using your first name or a term like “aunt” or “uncle.” Have this conversation early and let them decide—giving them a sense of control is empowering.
2. Maintain Open Communication with the School
Keep the school informed of any changes or challenges in the child’s life that could affect their learning or behaviour. Building relationships with teachers and attending parent evenings or school events helps you stay involved and ensures the child receives the support they need.
3. Share Relevant Background Information
Speak with the school about the child’s history, known triggers, and any specialist needs or emotional support they might require. This helps the school provide an environment that’s understanding and accommodating.
4. Offer Help with Homework and Learning Activities
Children in care may have missed out on educational support at home. Helping them with homework, reading together, or encouraging creative activities can reignite their curiosity and show them they’re capable of achieving more than they might believe.
5. Talk About Their Hopes for the Future
Some children in care may not have thought much about their future before. Inspire them to dream big by discussing their interests and goals. Whether it’s a career path, a creative pursuit, or a college ambition—encouragement goes a long way in helping them see what’s possible.
6. Emphasise the Importance of Attendance
While school might be a struggle some days, it’s important to explain the value of regular attendance. Schools aim for 95% attendance and monitor absences closely. If a child is avoiding school, try to explore what’s behind it—whether it’s anxiety, bullying, or just feeling overwhelmed.
7. Address Bullying Proactively
Some children won’t speak up if they’re being bullied, so watch for signs like changes in behaviour, mood, or school performance. If you suspect something’s wrong, reach out to the school and use the support of Beacon’s education specialists and social workers.
On the flip side, if the child in your care is displaying bullying behaviours, remember our therapeutic approach. Rather than punishing, explore the root cause of their actions. Ask reflective questions like:
What happened?
Why do you think you said or did that?
How do you think the other person felt?
How would you feel in their position?
These conversations help build empathy and break negative patterns.
8. Support Them During Exam Season
Exams can bring on a lot of stress, particularly for children already dealing with emotional struggles. Help by setting up a calm revision routine, and adapt study techniques to their learning style—visual, auditory, or hands-on. You could even take them out to revise somewhere different, like a cosy café or a quiet park bench, to make the process less daunting.
9. Celebrate Every Achievement
For children who have faced significant challenges, every educational milestone—no matter how small—is worth celebrating. A good grade, positive feedback from a teacher, or simply showing up to school on a tough day are all moments to acknowledge and applaud. Your encouragement can be the boost they need to keep going.
Your Support Makes the Difference
Being a foster parent means more than providing a home—it means being a mentor, advocate, and cheerleader. School may not always be easy for looked-after children, but with your steady support, they can rediscover their love of learning and believe in a brighter future.
At Beacon Fostering, we’re here to support you every step of the way—because when we work together, we give children the best possible start.