Children in out-of-home care and their educational outcomes: a literature review

Knight, Ruth L. & Rossi, Sari - Queensland University of Technology

Abstract

Approximately 48,000 children in Australia are living in out-of-home care (OOHC). While there are many different reasons why children are placed in OOHC most children who have been removed from their parental home have a range of complex needs and challenges. One of those challenges is the significant level of educational disadvantage they experience. This review assesses the literature that describes the risk and protective factors for children on OOHC experiencing educational disadvantage. It describes evidence-based interventions that improve educational outcomes for children and young people in OOHC in Australia and overseas. In conclusion the review identifies opportunities for further research.