Luton’s Virtual School: Students

The virtual school is here to support your education. Whether you need to switch schools or are unsure about how to reach your goals, we are here to help. Our mission is to solve any problems you may face and support you in reaching your fullest potential.

Your education plan

Your virtual school teacher will meet with you to create a personalised education plan with your school. It's important that you attend these meetings so your voice is heard and you can showcase your best work.

Designated teacher (DT)

At school, you will have a designated teacher (DT) who will check your progress, work with you, and use a grant to provide you with extra resources, clubs, or private lessons. If you need extra help or equipment, please let us know.

The virtual school is here to support you on every step of your education journey.

Who to contact

If you have any questions or need assistance, contact your virtual school advisor. Your advisor is your education advocate and will be happy to answer your questions and provide the support you need.

We want to ensure that your voice is heard. Join our ‘All in This Together’ children in care Council, which meets monthly. This is a safe space for young people in care to meet, socialise, and share experiences and give your views on how we can improve the ways we support you.

If you would like the details to attend or just want to contact us to share your thoughts, please email us at virtualschool@luton.gov.uk.

You can also participate in termly personal education plan (PEP) meetings to discuss your education and future goals which are held at your school or college.

Online learning can help you succeed in school and explore your interests. We provide:

• access to reading solutions reading platform during school and holidays
• support for education professionals to plan for your needs
• funding for extra learning equipment
• home tuition and online education
• interactive curriculum support via the Luton virtual education app (email virtualschool@luton.gov.uk for login details)

For more information visit, Independent advice and guidance for young people post 16 page.

The virtual school supports you in building your skills through apprenticeships, college, or university. We:

• help you find the best courses
• keep you informed about higher education events through monthly education, employment and training (EET) padlet
• guidance on choosing the right university and obtaining funding
• provide guidance on education options
• invite you to special annual awards evening held in October, bright spots, and events throughout the year

Our care leavers service offers one-on-one support to help you overcome barriers to education, training, and employment. We:

• provide career advice, cv writing help, and interview preparation
• assist with job applications
• organise short-term work experience and internships
• support applications for apprenticeships and traineeships
• connect you with education, training, and employment resources
• refer you to employment support programs and help with english/maths qualifications
• guarantee interviews for jobs within Luton Council (if minimum requirements are met)

You can visit the education, training and employment page for further information.

Please contact sarah.appleton@luton.gov.uk or EETvirtualschool@luton.gov.uk to book an in person or online appointment or speak to your personal advisor to support you.