The resource, called “Take Care”, provides educators with practical steps to ensure students receive the support they need to stay in school and succeed.

According to research from the Central Statistics Office, 28 percent of care-experienced young people who began post-primary education between 2013 and 2016 left school early without completing the Leaving Certificate in comparison to just 8 percent of all children.

The rights-based organisation Empowering People in Care (EPIC) said the toolkit aims to bridge this gap by equipping teachers, principals, and school staff with the knowledge and tools to help children in care thrive.

Developed by young people aged 14 to 16, including those currently in care, aftercare, or with experience in the care system, this toolkit offers insight and practical guidance to break down barriers in education.

Andrea Reilly, an EPIC Youth Council member who contributed to the project, stated that care-experienced children and young people already have so much to deal with outside of school, and it can be difficult for them to remain in education.

“We need teachers who understand that and can be flexible, patient, and kind”, she stressed. “That’s what Take Care is all about – helping schools build that support and understanding.”

Funded by the Tusla Education Support Service, the initiative aims to foster a more supportive school environment for children in care, ensuring they have the same opportunities as their peers.