New push on improving education of looked-after children in Scotland

A national champion will work with Scottish councils to make sure they are providing the best possible education for children in care, under measures announced by the education minister.
 
Hugh Henry said the Scottish cabinet would also get regular reports on how looked-after children, who gain fewer qualifications than other children, perform at school.
 
The measures, which affect social workers, teachers and health workers, were drawn up by a working party.
 
They include: improving training professionals to ensure they have the skills to deal with students who are looked-after and providing key workers with guidance on their role in supporting individual young people.
 
Henry said: “This is a problem that needs care and attention from everyone involved in looking after these vulnerable youngsters. This report sets out a clear plan of action for everyone from the executive and councils to individual teachers and social workers.”