Looked after children and further education in Scotland: a briefing paper

The paper begins with a brief account of the Scottish education system and the further education college sector in particular. This account is set within the wider policy context of providing opportunities for some of the least academically qualified school leavers. The paper continues with an overview of looked after young people and care leavers and current policy, particularly as it relates to post-school opportunities. The remainder of the paper is allocated to a more detailed discussion of the research evidence in relation to the education of looked after young people and the importance of the further education sector in collaborating with schools and local authorities.