Investigators: Miriam Maclean, Fernando Lima, Melissa O'Donnell
Previous research has shown that children who spend time in out-of-home care such as foster care are at risk of low achievement in school. Among the reasons for this are that these children have often experienced abuse or neglect, along with poverty and other adversities before entering care, and while in care their education may be disrupted if they move between a number of foster homes or lack support. Nonetheless, some children in care achieve well in school, and some show improvements in achievement over time.
This study aims to better understand what may contribute to these positive outcomes, including supports and experiences while in care. It will take into account the differences related to children’s experiences before entering care.