Education in Out-of-Home Care
Improving educational outcomes for children and young people in care by equipping professionals and carers with the knowledge and skills to navigate the education system and access support.
Last updated: 24 Dec 2024
Vision and purpose
The Education in Out-of-Home Care initiative raises awareness, particularly among carers and child and family services, about the Out-of-Home Care Education Commitment (Partnering Agreement).
In collaboration with the Victorian Aboriginal Children and Young People’s Alliance (the Alliance) and the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency (VACCA), the project provides professionals supporting carers and children in out-of-home care with access to resources and information to advocate for children’s education.
History
In 2021, the Department of Education funded The Centre for two years to support implementation of the Out-of-Home Care Education Commitment.
The project has since been extended until mid-2025. During this time, the project has supported care providers to understand the education system, LOOKOUT Centres and Partnering Agreements and best help the children and young people in their care with their education.
Impact
Education in Out-of-Home Care’s research into education services and supports in residential care homes has been shared with stakeholders, including LOOKOUT and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing services and has informed the promotion of LOOKOUT services and the implementation of training programs to address barriers to education for children and young people in residential care.
Additionally, communication materials, including posters and other resources, have been developed and distributed in residential care homes to promote awareness of LOOKOUT and the Out-of-Home Care Partnering Agreement.
Education in Out-of-Home Care also hosts an Education Resource Hub, which contains helpful information about the supports offered by the Partnering Agreement and LOOKOUT.
