Prior to joining us, prospective students in York can visit College as part of the Local Authority’s Summer School package for Looked-after-Children. This is a more personalised event which takes place away from the crowds of main open days, includes a tour, refreshments and time to ask specific questions to support staff, to ensure the best possible preparation for college life.
For 'looked-after' students we strive to work with social workers, parents/carers and all others involved to maintain the post-16 Personal Education Plan and to attend our student's care review meetings. We will also aim to keep everybody updated with key progress throughout the year.
All students falling into the 'looked-after' or 'leaving care' category are guaranteed a bursary that offers additional financial support throughout college. This can be arranged through the College Funding Team with a letter from the local authority confirming their status.
Finally, a dedicated person is available at college to offer additional extra support if or when it’s needed.
Prospective students or professionals; please contact studentservices@yorkcollege.ac.uk for further details about the support offered.
Speak Up, the Children’s Rights and Advocacy Service provides independent support for young people who are in care, on a child protection plan or wishing to make a complaint. A young person may benefit from advocacy if they are expressing they are not feeling listened to, would like help to have their views heard or would like to be more involved in the decision making process.
An advocate could help them to explore the views they wish to share and support them to share them, help them to prepare for and support them to attend meetings (or attend on their behalf) and provide information about their rights and entitlements. More information is available here: Click on the links for leaflets about Advocacy for young people and Advocacy for older people.
A member of the Care Leavers Forum, I Still Matter, has created a clip about advocacy and how to get in touch with the service:
Inquiry’s or referrals can be made either via email to speakup@york.gov.uk or tel: 07769 725174.
