Is there a difference between educational aspirations in looked after children at primary school when compared to their peers who are not looked after?

The aim of the research was to compare thoughts about school motivation, school work and aspirations for the future in looked after and non-looked after children aged seven to eleven at primary school. In total 72 children took part in the research, 36 were looked after children and they were paired with 36 matched non-looked after children.

The participants were seen individually to complete a questionnaire and take part in a semi-structured interview. Statistical analysis of the data revealed some significant findings, in particular with regards to enthusiasm and orientation to study, non-looked after children were more enthusiastic and motivated to achieve.

Looked after children were more likely to see themselves as more important to help them achieve future goals, whereas non-looked after children saw teachers as more likely to help them.

Qualitative analysis highlighted interesting themes and similarities and differences between the two groups of children.

Implications of the findings are that looked after children are likely to require more support to help to inspire their interest and motivation at school to enable them to achieve their goals and potential. Areas for future research are suggested.