Children Looked After (CLA)

Children Looked After (CLA)

At Holy Cross, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to feel valued, included and successful both inside and outside the classroom. For our Children Looked After (CLA) and previously looked-after children, we recognise that positive experiences beyond lessons can play an important part in building confidence, developing friendships, discovering interests and creating a strong sense of belonging.

Being Part of School Life

We actively encourage our CLA pupils to take part in the full range of opportunities available at school. This may include:

• Sports teams and physical activities
• Music, drama, art and creative activities
• Lunchtime and after-school clubs
• School trips, visits and residential experiences
• University visits
• Careers, enrichment and aspiration activities
• Student leadership and school council
• Competitions, performances and celebrations
• Duke of Edinburgh and other wider-achievement opportunities
• Transition and preparation for the next stage of education

Where barriers exist, we work with the child, their carers and relevant professionals to identify practical ways to enable participation.

Removing Barriers

We understand that every child has different experiences and needs. Financial, emotional, social or practical circumstances should not prevent a child from experiencing the wider opportunities that school has to offer. Where appropriate, we can explore support with equipment, resources, participation costs, transport or additional pastoral support so that CLA pupils can participate alongside their peers. Pupil Premium Plus funding may also be used where appropriate to support identified educational and wellbeing needs, in line with the child’s Personal Education Plan (PEP).

Relationships, Belonging and Wellbeing

We recognise the importance of positive relationships and trusted adults. Our Designated Teacher for Looked After Children works closely with pastoral staff, safeguarding colleagues, carers, social workers and the Virtual School to ensure that each child has the support they need to feel safe, listened to and included. Our pupils are encouraged to share their views and take an active role in identifying the support and opportunities that are important to them. The PEP provides an opportunity to review progress, wellbeing, aspirations and support regularly.

Raising Aspirations

We want every CLA pupil to recognise their strengths and believe in what they can achieve. Through enrichment, enhanced careers education, university visits, mentoring and opportunities to develop new skills, we aim to broaden experiences and help pupils develop the confidence and aspirations they need for their future.

Our Commitment

We will:

Listen – ensuring pupils’ views and experiences are heard.

Include – actively encouraging participation in the wider life of the school.

Remove barriers – identifying and addressing anything that prevents participation.

Celebrate – recognising achievements, interests, talents and personal development.

Support – providing appropriate pastoral, academic and practical support.

Aspire – helping every child recognise their potential and plan positively for their future.

Our aim is simple: being looked after should never be a barrier to belonging, participating or achieving.

If you would like further information about how we support Children Looked After, please contact our Designated Teacher for Looked After Children: Mrs L Davda via