Message from the Virtual School Head
Dear Colleagues,
As we approach the end of another academic year, the Oxfordshire Virtual School Team would like to thank you for everything you have done to support care-experienced children, children with a social worker and children in kinship care.
These children and young people often face significant challenges and the impact of strong relationships, high expectations, understanding and advocacy from schools, colleges and settings cannot be overstated. Your commitment to helping children feel safe, included, valued and successful makes a real difference to their lives and future outcomes.
The Virtual School Team remains available to provide information, advice and support. Whether you would like guidance relating to individual children and young people, advice on policy and practice, or support to develop whole-setting approaches, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Training and support for 2026–27
As you plan for the new academic year, we encourage you to explore our free training and support offer and book colleagues onto relevant sessions:
Oxfordshire Virtual School Conference 2026
We also hope to see many of you at our annual conference:
Book a place at the 2026 Virtual School Conference
Thursday 8 October 2026
Unipart House, Oxford
The conference will bring together colleagues from across education, social care and partner agencies to explore how we can continue improving outcomes for our most vulnerable learners.
The programme includes:
- Keynote speaker Louise Bomber
- An update from the Virtual School Head on the evolving role of Virtual Schools and national policy changes
- A session from Linda Culling, Senior His Majesty’s Inspector (Schools), South East, on Ofsted and Inclusion: What Ofsted Expects for Vulnerable Learners
Alongside contributions from children, young people and professionals across the partnership, the day will explore the vital role education plays in providing continuity, strengthening relationships and creating brighter futures.
Thank you once again for your continued commitment and support throughout the year.
We look forward to working alongside you again in 2026–27 and wish you a restful and well-deserved summer break.
With best wishes,
Clare Pike
Head of the Virtual School
Oxfordshire County Council
On behalf of the Oxfordshire Virtual School Team