How Schools Can Support Adopted Children in the Classroom

How Schools Can Support Adopted Children in the Classroom

Understanding the Needs of Adopted Children

Adopted children often bring unique experiences into the classroom. Many have faced early trauma, loss, or instability before joining their adoptive families. These experiences can influence emotional well-being, social interactions, and learning styles.

Key UK Statistics:

• Around 102,687 children are cared for away from home in the UK, with 81,770 looked-after children in England alone (2024).
• In 2023–24, 2,980 looked-after children were adopted in England, representing about 2% of the care population.
• The average time from entering care to adoption placement is 1 year 7 months, plus 9 months to finalise the adoption order.

Common Challenges in Education for Adopted Children

• Attachment and Trust Issues: Children who have experienced disrupted care may struggle to trust adults.
• Children and Trauma: Trauma can manifest as anxiety, hypervigilance, or difficulty regulating emotions.
• Looked-After Children and Children Leaving Care: These groups often need extra support during transitions.
• Summer Born Children: Younger children in the cohort may feel additional pressure if they also face adoption-related challenges.

Practical Strategies for Teachers and Schools

1. Foster a Trauma-Informed Environment

Training staff on trauma-informed practices is crucial. Resources like the Children And Trauma Community Hub (CATCH) can help educators understand how trauma impacts learning and behaviour.

2. Use Inclusive Language

Avoid assumptions about family structures. Instead of asking about “mum and dad,” use terms like “parents or carers.”

3. Provide Emotional Support

Offer access to school counsellors and create safe spaces where children can express feelings without judgment.

4. Collaborate with Families

Regular communication with adoptive parents ensures consistency between home and school. This partnership helps address challenges early.

5. Support Identity and Belonging

Celebrate diversity in family structures through classroom activities and discussions. This helps adopted children feel seen and valued.

Final Thoughts

Schools have the power to make a lasting difference in the lives of adopted children. By embracing empathy, flexibility, and trauma-informed practices, educators can create classrooms where every child feels safe, understood, and ready to learn.

Adoption Tees Valley Education Support Worker

Our Education Support Worker is able to provide training and resources for schools, please click here to find out more and read about our education support offer.