The definition comes from the Children and Social Work Act 2017 and is set out in KCSIE 2026 footnote 51. It covers children who stopped being looked after because of an adoption order, a special guardianship order or a child arrangements order, and children adopted from state care abroad.
KCSIE 2026 paragraph 238 says a previously looked-after child may still be vulnerable, and that all staff should have the skills and understanding to keep them safe. In maintained schools and academies the designated teacher is responsible for promoting their educational achievement as well as that of looked-after children (paragraph 239). The virtual school head mainly gives information and advice for this group, for example to parents and designated teachers (paragraph 242).
Common confusions:
- Previously looked-after children don't have a personal education plan, a social worker or an independent reviewing officer just because of their history. Those belong to children who are currently looked after.
- Pupil premium plus for previously looked-after children is managed by their school, not the virtual school (KCSIE footnote 54).
- The school usually only knows a child is previously looked after if the parents or guardians tell it, so involving them is central (Designated teacher guidance, paragraph 11).