Celebrating the progress, resilience and achievements of children in care

A light has been shining on the achievements of children and young people in care, care leavers and those who give them so much support to thrive. 

The Dorset Virtual School Awards event, held in early July 2026, recognised the progress, resilience and determination of children and young people. 

The Virtual School is a Dorset Council-run service that supports children in care and care leavers to do well in education and build brighter futures. 

The event highlighted what can be achieved when the right support, from foster carers, teachers, social workers and other professionals, is given to a child. 

Cllr Clare Sutton, Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education, said: “To nurture a child to grow, gain confidence and thrive, must be one of the most fulfilling things we can do, whether as a parent or carer. 

“Every child in Dorset deserves the chance to succeed whatever their circumstances. These awards celebrate the resilience and achievements of children and young people in care, and the dedication of the adults who support them.  

“The awards also aim to challenge perceptions of children in care by focusing on their strengths and achievements”.  

Cllr Sutton continued: 

“What we see time and again is just how much difference the right support can make. Foster carers, teachers and professionals all play a part in helping young people feel secure, build confidence and achieve their goals. 

“I am thrilled to see so many brilliant people recognised through the awards.” 

Dorset Virtual School is not a physical school. It is a team of education specialists who work with schools, carers and families to make sure children in care feel included, stay engaged in learning and reach their potential. 

Learners range from age 2 to 18 years old and attend real schools or educational settings. Designated Teachers work closely with the Virtual School team, which tracks progress and provides both support and challenge throughout each child’s education.  

This year’s awards included categories for progress and effort, community champions, and Designated Teacher of the Year award. Nominations came from professionals who see first-hand the growth of the young people they support. 

From improved attendance and academic progress to positive contributions in their communities, the awards showcase real stories of success. Behind many of these achievements are strong relationships with foster carers, teachers and practitioners who provide stability, encouragement and belief. 

Dorset Council hopes that sharing these stories will encourage more people to think about fostering. Foster carers play a vital role in helping children feel safe, supported and able to succeed in education and in life. 

Cllr Sutton concluded: ““I’m extremely privileged that I’ve had the opportunity to get to know these children and young people and their carers that bring so much.” 

“I hope these inspiring stories encourage more people to consider fostering and caring for other brilliant young people. This is a powerful reminder that, with the right support, children can overcome challenges and thrive.” 

What some of the young people told us about their carers:  

“She’s great at looking after us. She’s helpful. She’s lovely. She takes us on holidays to explore the world and stuff.” 

“She has fun with us and she does fun stuff with us. We play games, go outside, go out to different places.” 

“When we’re feeling sad or angry she talks to us about it, she asks why we’re feeling like this and it makes us feel better.” 

 “My carers, who I call ‘mum and dad’ have helped me to understand my emotions when I don't know how to say how I'm feeling. They will sit with me and talk about what is making me feel that way.” 

“They have helped me to be more confident and try new things, like going on a plane for the first time when we went to Fuerteventura.” 

They have helped me to manage money. When I didn’t have enough money saved to buy another Lego set, they encouraged me to save more so I could buy one when I had enough money.”    

“They help me to manage my emotions around contact with family members and I will talk to them about my feelings.”  

“I appreciate everything they have done for me".