School placement for looked-after children

The placement plan should make clear who has the authority to make decisions about which school a looked-after child should attend.

If there is a care order the local authority decides whether it is in the best interests of the child to consult his or her parents.

School choices should be made in consultation with the virtual school placement officers.

Parents and local authorities can delegate decision making to foster carers. However, due to the long-term impact decisions about school admission, the social worker must coordinate the admissions application in consultation with foster carers and parents.

Page last updated: 2 February 2026