Improving Educational Outcomes for Children in Care

This guide discusses the educational outcomes of children and young people in care, focusing on the necessary policy changes to enhance these outcomes in New South Wales (NSW). It outlines the challenges faced by these children, including behavioral issues, truancy, and poor academic performance, which are often exacerbated by their backgrounds of abuse and neglect. The document reviews existing policies in NSW and compares them with successful approaches implemented in other Australian states and international jurisdictions. It emphasizes the importance of stable placements and the role of educational support tailored to the needs of children in out-of-home care (OOHC). The guide also highlights the need for collaboration between education providers and child welfare agencies to ensure that children in care receive the support they need to succeed academically. Recommendations for future policy directions are provided to foster better educational experiences and outcomes for these vulnerable groups.