Higher and further education for care leavers: a road less travelled

Abstract

Higher and further education is an important gateway to health and emotional wellbeing, job satisfaction and financial security. Young people who have been in out-of-home care often endure disadvantages well beyond the care years, including lower educational attainment and access to post-secondary education. This paper outlines preliminary findings from a research project involving 13 young people who are in care or care leavers, who aspire to, currently attend, or have completed higher or further education. The aim of the research was to better understand the factors that facilitated or constrained interest in further education for young people in care. The factors identified included the importance of having someone to encourage education aspirations, and explore careers and university life, and advocacy to overcome practical barriers. Expectations from carers, workers and teachers can influence aspirations and change the life course for young people in care. The factors that these young people identify can contribute to the development of policy and practical measures that support increased engagement in education for children and young people in care.