At a session hosted by Stirling Council’s Care Experienced Virtual Head Team at Raploch Community Campus on Monday (25 March), there were discussions about the work towards tackling stigma, improving attendance and engagement with learning as well as reaching post-school positive destinations.
Stirling Council’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations as a corporate parent was showcased across various projects aimed at removing barriers for young people with experience of care in addition to those living in poverty.
The positive impact of the Virtual Head Team’s Mentoring Service in helping young people achieve within their learning was highlighted, while the work of Stirling’s Champions Board to celebrate International Care Day recognised children, young people and corporate parents.
Stirling’s Champions Board is comprised of young people cared for or supported by the council, including those in foster, residential or kinship care.
Convener for Children and Young People, Cllr Margaret Brisley said: “We take our role as a corporate parent to children with experience of care with the utmost seriousness. I could not be more proud of the work of the Virtual Head Team, outreach staff within our schools, our mentors and our young people.
“This invaluable work helps our aim to ensure that every child in Stirling is cared for and given every opportunity to succeed in life with loving and nurturing support.”
Linda Peat, Education Lead at CELCIS said: “It was great to visit Stirling to learn more about the lasting, positive change that the Virtual School is making in the lives, experiences and education of care experienced children and young people.
“Having the opportunity to hear directly from children and young people about the projects they’re involved in with Stirling’s Care Experienced Virtual Head Team really brought the work to life and enabled us to better understand what’s making a difference for them.”