Social workers and practitioners for all other children

The review of children in need found that between 2012 and 2018, at least 1.6 million children needed a social worker. This is about 1 in 10 of all children, or 3 children in every classroom. These children do worse at all stages of education, and their poor performance continues even after they stop needing a social worker.

In September 2021, the Department for Education extended the role of virtual school heads to become strategic leaders who promote education for children assessed as in need under section 17 of the Children Act 1989. This includes children who currently have a social worker and those who had one in the past.

‘Children with a social worker’ refers to all children who have needed a social worker in the past 6 years due to safeguarding or welfare reasons. This includes children aged 0 to 18 in all education settings who are on a children in need plan or a child protection plan.’

The information below is to help practitioners improve the education of children with a social worker.

If you're a social worker and need advice about the education of a child with a social worker (especially those at risk of being permanently excluded, suspended, frequently absent, or becoming home-schooled) please contact the Virtual School Assistant Head for Vulnerable Children at malaika.williams@enfield.gov.uk.

View Improving educational outcomes of children with a social worker (PDF, 474.45 KB).