National Assisted Boarding Partnership (N.A.B.P.)

The Department of Education working in partnership with Local Authorities, Boarding Schools and Education Trusts Boarding school provision extended to more children in vulnerable circumstances DCSF launched the boarding pathfinder scheme in November 2006 Norfolk County Council Joined in 2009 The National Perspective

‘The Department of Education believes boarding is an option local authorities should consider to increase the life chances and achievements for some vulnerable children and more should be done to open up access to boarding for those children who would find it beneficial. It is believed that if boarding placements are used wisely and targeted for individual pupils they can provide benefits for vulnerable children.’ Department for Education ‘ Boarding Schools: An opportunity to improve outcomes for vulnerable children.’ November 2014

The Positives –Alternative to Care –Good option for the right child –Holistic approach to education and care –Small class sizes –Wide range of non – academic activities and pastoral support –Stability, routine and safety –Maintains strong identity with family –Family retain responsibility for their children –Sense of community and mutual support –Alternative positive role models and values –Sense of achievement to be awarded a place

Common Themes Resilience and belonging Support network outside of their wider family Support for wider family Opportunity to develop wider interests - hook for success Improved self esteem Not for children/young people with poor social skills and significant behaviour problems Investing in the boarding experience. ie: sleeping arrangements and school rules Planning and support with transition

21 children currently in placements 3 further children with placements approved 7 schools providing successful placements in Norfolk for Norfolk children. 71% of children have accessed further education after N.A.B.P. The Current Situation

Processes in Norfolk Edge of Care/reunification threshold agreed. Recommendations for support agreed by multi disciplinary panel. Funding agreed by Admissions to Care Panel chaired by AD as an alternate plan to LAC Local Authority and school assessments regarding suitability for boarding.(In partnership with parents and child/young person) Planned admission.

Parent’s Feedback Themes Often gets children back into education after spells out of school and engages them positively Returns stability and structure to children’s education & life The scheme is successful in giving opportunities and aspirations to the children placed Although it often takes time to settle, children establish their character and grow through their experiences General views on the scheme: “Brilliant” “Would recommend” “Amazing” & “Excellent, a massive opportunity”

Ongoing Development Collaborative working arrangements with charities Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaires Parent and Children/Young People’s Forum Annual Steering Group with Norfolk schools Select list to ensure clear contractual commissioning arrangements Cases to remain open within social care