New row over duty to children in care

New row over duty to children in care Local government leaders have
reignited the debate over why schools should not be placed under
the same duty as councils to promote the education of children in
care.

In a response to a consultation on councils’ duty under the
Children Act 2004, they criticise the government for failing to
circulate the guidance to schools.

Organisations, including the Association of Directors of Social
Services and the Local Government Association, want separate
guidance to be issued to schools on their contribution to
looked-after children’s education.

Council leaders clashed with the government during the passage of
the Children Bill because of the failure to extend the duty to
schools.

The response also argues that the best outcome for looked-after
children may not be to achieve the same grade as their peers, given
the link between social disadvantage and educational
under-achievement.

Response from www.adss.org.uk