The Children and Families Act 2014 requires Local Authorities to appoint a Virtual School Head whose purpose is to ensure the Local Authority fulfils its statutory duty to promote the education of Looked After Children.
The Virtual School Head is a Bi-borough post and manages the Virtual School in the two authorities (Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea / City of Westminster).
The role of the Virtual School is to:
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Monitor and promote the educational progress and achievement of Looked After Children and care leavers
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Ensure that Personal Education Plans are current, relevant and effective
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Promote and monitor the use of the Pupil Premium Grant
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Support Schools and Designated Teachers to develop effective strategies and support for Looked After Children
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Provide advice and guidance for social workers and carers on issues relating to the education of Looked After Children
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Commission and fund additional resources for Looked After Children to support education
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Develop and implement programmes and activities to support the education and learning of Looked After Children
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Provide information, advice and guidance to Looked After Children and care leavers about education, employment and training