Virtual School Herefordshire

The Herefordshire Virtual School champions the education of children who are looked after (CLA) and previously looked after, ensuring they receive the support, stability, and opportunities they need to achieve their potential. It is not a physical school but a service that works alongside mainstream schools, social care, and families to oversee and support children’s educational journeys.

Who the Virtual School Supports

The Virtual School supports:

• Children looked after by Herefordshire Council
• Previously looked after children, including those who left care through adoption, Special Guardianship Orders or Child Arrangements Orders

Some children may also have disabilities, complex needs, or emotional pressures, and the Virtual School works tirelessly to ensure they receive appropriate help to thrive.

What the Virtual School Does

1. Ensures Children Access the Right School

The Virtual School helps ensure that children are admitted promptly to suitable schools and that they settle, attend well, and develop positively.

2. Oversees Personal Education Plans (PEPs)

All looked after children have a Personal Education Plan, reviewed termly. The Virtual School monitors progress, identifies gaps, and arranges support or interventions where needed.

3. Works Directly with Schools

The team works with designated teachers and school staff to:

• Share up‑to‑date information
• Provide training
• Ensure schools meet the highest expectations for children in care

Where needed, the Virtual School challenges schools to improve support or respond swiftly to concerns.

4. Provides Advice to Parents, Carers & Professionals

Parents and carers of previously looked‑after children can contact the Virtual School for guidance on educational issues, SEN support, transitions, or accessing specialist services.

5. Celebrates Achievements

Whether it’s academic success, learning a new skill, or overcoming personal challenges, the Virtual School celebrates every milestone. Their ethos is built on raising aspirations and helping children achieve their dreams.

How the Virtual School Works with Other Services

The Virtual School works multi‑agency, collaborating with:

• Social workers
• SEND services
• Health professionals
• Foster carers and residential homes

This ensures children receive joined‑up care, especially during times of difficulty, such as risk of exclusion, school moves, or significant emotional needs.

Pupil Premium Plus (PP+) Funding

For looked after children, the Virtual School Head manages the Pupil Premium Plus (PP+), allocating schools to improve outcomes through targeted support.

Programmes Supporting Looked‑After Children

Herefordshire also works with external partners, such as the Active Herefordshire & Worcestershire Virtual Schools programme, which offers physical activity sessions, confidence‑building activities, and leadership opportunities to help raise aspirations.

Why Virtual Schools Matter

Ofsted research highlights that Virtual Schools play a vital role in:

• Improving educational progress
• Strengthening multi‑agency teamwork
• Supporting transitions and reducing the impact of instability

Herefordshire’s Virtual School is recognised locally for helping children overcome barriers and achieve positive, sometimes life‑changing, outcomes.

Contacting the Virtual School

Schools, parents, and carers can contact the Virtual School through Herefordshire Council:

https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/schools-and-education/virtual-school-information-for-parents-carers-and-pupils/