IFCA Seminar November 2009
06 November 2009
Irish Foster Care Association Annual Seminar 2009
Education-Transforming the Lives of Foster Children
The annual IFCA May seminar was held on 6th November this year in the newly revamped Ashling Hotel. Could November be the new May!
Minister Barry Andrews T.D. opened the seminar which was attended by over 70 delegates, mostly foster parents & social workers.
Ms. Agnes Feely, manager of the care assessment and planning service HSE West and a former foster carer, presented research into education at primary level. Her presentation focused on two studies which examined the educational needs and outcomes of children in the Mid-West and initiatives in place to support children with learning and experiencing success.
A tea/coffee break was welcome to digest the information, converse, and network and enjoy an exhibition of art work from young people in care.
Fiona Daly took to the podium for her delivery on a national study of young people aged 17-19 in long term foster care. This research focused on young educational outcomes which includes school leaving age and state examinations taken during their school career. One of the key factors in this research was stability in family placement. A lively question & answer session ensued.
A very good lunch was enjoyed by everyone and we resumed with Kathleen Chambers (IAYPIC) this young girl gave an in-depth account of her educational career through her care placements, both residential & fostering. What an applause she received!!
Kathleen was followed by Hugh McAllister (Fostering network NI) who presented on the nature and operation of the Fostering Achievement scheme and how the practical application has real positive change in the lives of children and young people within foster care placement in Northern Ireland. Support is achieved primarily through the provision of equipment such as computers, musical instruments, education software, educational grinds, sports coaching etc.
It is hoped that the scheme will help improve the educational outcomes of children in foster care and also to empower foster carers to support and advocate for the best possible education for the children in their care.
A positive preliminary evaluation was given by Agnes on study buddies, a pack of fun educational toys given to each fostering family in NI and being piloted in the Mid West by the HSE. The pack contains games, age appropriate (tools) to enhance literacy, numeracy and communication skills in a fun interactive way.
The day concluded with a panel discussion and relevant questions from the floor.
Sandra Twyford, Triona Fitzpatrick