All local authorities have a duty to promote the educational achievement of 'looked after' children and make sure that all of these children have a Personal Education Plan (PEP).
A PEP should be started within 20 school days of a child becoming 'looked after'. The PEP should set out clear education, behavioural and personal targets with timescales for action and review. The PEP should be linked to other educational plans, such as Statements, Individual Education Plans, Individual Behaviour Plans and Pastoral Support Plans.
Why have a PEP?
A PEP is particularly useful when a child moves to a new school or college. Information can move quickly with the child so that suitable support can be put in place without delay.
Who is responsible for starting the PEP process?
The social worker should take the lead in getting the PEP process underway when a child becomes 'looked after'. This should be done in conjunction with the relevant education professionals. The social worker should involve the child and the child’s parent or carer in the PEP process.
Reviewing the PEP
The PEP should be reviewed every six months. The social worker is responsible for carrying out actions agreed in the PEP and should alert the Independent Reviewing Manager of any significant changes, such as a change of school.
The PEP should:
- Set out clear goals and actions which relate to academic achievement and out of school activities
- Give consideration to the young person’s views
- Record progress and achievements
- Identify concerns, issues and additional needs
- Be an integral part of a child's care plan
Achievement awards
PEPs can lead to an achievement award: we are very proud of the achievements of looked after children and young people in Bolton.
We recognise that all children achieve at different levels. Getting to school on time is a major achievement for some children; passing three A levels is a major achievement for others.
Anyone working with these young people - teachers, social workers, learning mentors, carers, residential social workers - can recommend them for a financial reward and a certificate of achievement. If you would like to nominate someone for an award, please complete the Achievement Award Form under 'related documents'.