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We believe in the importance of education for young people in our care.  We aim, within the duration of the young person’s stay, to make a positive difference to their ability to be able to deal with and understand the world around them.  Through education, we try to build confidence, self esteem, and self determination. We do this by employing a system of goal based learning and involving the young people at every possible stage of planning and delivery of the education plan.

We ensure that all young people have education plans and our Personal Development Manager ensures that these are up to date. As soon as a placement starts with Southern Adolescent Care Services, the Local Authority are informed and liaison commences with the Placing and Local Authorities to ensure education can begin as soon as possible. Southern Adolescent Care Services has close links with schools, colleges and specialised schools, as well as the tutors who teach within the home, giving us options.

Education at Southern Adolescent Care Services is delivered in one of three forms:

Wherever possible and appropriate, young people will be placed in an educational establishment with their peers.  Southern Adolescent Care Services recognises the benefits in personal and social development that this sort of environment can have.  Where it is not possible to do this as a result of school refusal, long term non attendance, behavioural difficulties or other problems, tuition will be delivered on a small ratio basis within the home. We recognise that setting up an education programme which is too much and unachievable can have a detrimental effect.

Where schooling is delivered within the organisation, we endeavour to provide a ‘toolkit curriculum’. This constitutes the core subjects of English, Maths and Science in addition to Information Technology, Life Skills and topics drawn from Humanities and the Arts.  In an effort to engage young people in education, topics are tailored around their interests and pre-existing knowledge.  Great care is taken to deliver work which is appropriate to the functional level of the young person involved. Where possible, and with agreement from all relevant parties, young people can be entered for accredited schemes with an aim to achieving certification or qualification, i.e. ASDAN Award Scheme. 

The care staff for the young people provide assistance and support with all aspects of education: attendance at school functions, meeting with teachers and help with homework are considered essential in providing the young person with access to their future.  Young people are encouraged to think about their futures and to contribute to the plans that are being made for their education.

All young people have their own space in which to study. Each bedroom has a desk giving them room to complete homework or work on projects.  There is also a computer in a communal area which young people are encouraged to use and on which they can access the internet, which has parental control, for research or information.