Designated Teacher for Looked After and Previously Looked After Children
Supporting Every Child to Let Their Light Shine (Matthew 5:16)
At Gunthorpe Church of England Primary School, we believe that every child is unique, valued and full of potential. We celebrate the strengths of every child and place the child at the centre of everything we do. This commitment is at the heart of our Christian vision:
"At Gunthorpe, we always do our best and let our light shine. We do this by growing our understanding of the world that God created, our place in it, our value to it and our responsibility for it. We live this out through our Christian values of forgiveness, service, determination, respect and friendship."
We are committed to ensuring that all children, including those who are looked after and previously looked after, feel safe, valued, supported and able to flourish both academically and personally.
Our Designated Teacher
Our Designated Teacher for Looked After and Previously Looked After Children is Anna Owen.
Mrs Owen works closely with children, families, carers, social workers, the Virtual School and other professionals to ensure that every child receives the support they need to achieve their full potential.
Her role includes:
· Promoting the educational achievement and wellbeing of looked after and previously looked after children.
· Ensuring each child receives appropriate support to meet their individual needs.
· Working in partnership with parents, carers, social workers and the Virtual School.
· Supporting staff to understand the experiences and needs of children in care.
· Monitoring progress, attendance and achievement to ensure children can thrive.
· Championing children's voices and ensuring they feel valued, listened to and included in school life.
Living Our Vision Through Our Values
Our Christian values guide every aspect of the support we provide.
Friendship – We foster positive relationships where every child feels welcomed, included and has a true sense of belonging within our school family.
Service – We work collaboratively with families, carers and professionals, serving the best interests of each child and ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve.
Determination – We have high expectations for every learner and believe that all children can succeed. We encourage resilience, celebrate effort and support children to overcome challenges with confidence.
Respect – Every child is treated with dignity, compassion and understanding. We value each child's experiences, listen to their voice and celebrate their individuality.
Forgiveness – We nurture an environment where children feel safe to learn from mistakes, develop positive relationships and move forward with hope and confidence.
Our Commitment
At Gunthorpe School, everyone seeks to be a positive role model. We communicate with clear aims and expectations, provide constructive feedback and celebrate success. Through respectful relationships, inclusive practice and a caring environment, we help every child feel secure and valued.
We strive to develop routines that promote stability, clear expectations and a strong sense of belonging. By valuing children's opinions, encouraging independence and working closely with parents and carers, we create opportunities for every child to experience success.
We are committed to removing barriers to learning, promoting emotional wellbeing and ensuring that looked after and previously looked after children are able to flourish academically, socially and emotionally.
Together, we help every child to do their best and let their light shine.
Contact
If you would like to discuss the support available for a looked after or previously looked after child, please contact Anna Owen, our Designated Teacher, through the school office on 0115 9663481.
We are always happy to work alongside families, carers and professionals to ensure every child receives the care, encouragement and opportunities they need to thrive.