Children in Care: A Systematic Review of Stakeholder Experiences and a Study of Virtual School Heads’ Support for Children on the Autism Spectrum

This thesis explores the perspectives of children in care, and those who support them, with a particular focus on how autistic children in care are supported by virtual school heads.

Chapter 1 provides a systematic literature review of papers that gathered the voices of children in care, and key stakeholders around the child.

Twenty-four research papers were found. The findings indicated significant commonalities across experiences, including agreement between individuals regarding a lack of 'autonomy and control' and the need for 'attuned relationships'.

There were only seven studies that focused specifically on the perspectives of caregivers and professionals, while the remaining research reported on children with an experience of care.

Chapter 2 comprises a qualitative study of the views of virtual school heads supporting autistic children in care.

Three main themes were found:

• Impact of Structure and Systems
• Specialist Knowledge of Autism or Attachment
• Strategies to Provide Support for Children in Care

From these findings two key issues are discussed: the importance of relationships and the question of responsibility.

An adapted version of the Bioecological Model of Development is proposed that addresses these issues and provides a working framework through which support for autistic children in care can be enhanced.

Across both chapters the thesis provides an in-depth exploration of the lived experiences of those supporting some of the most disadvantaged students in England, thereby advancing the research discourse, whilst also proposing realistic proposals to inform the work of relevant practitioners.