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Looked-after child

A child in the care of a local authority, for example living with foster carers or in a children's home. Often now called a child looked after (CLA).

Also called
LAC
Used in
All four UK nations (details may differ)
Topic
Safeguarding and child protection

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Virtual school head (VSH) England
A local authority officer in England responsible for promoting the education of looked-after and previously looked-after children and children with a social worker.
Designated teacher England Wales
A teacher who has statutory responsibility for promoting the educational achievement of looked-after and previously looked-after children at a school.
Personal education plan (PEP) England Wales
Part of a looked-after child's care plan that sets out their educational needs, targets and support.
Care leaver All four UK nations (details may differ)
A young person who has been in local authority care and has left it, usually at age 16 to 18.

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Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.