CHILDREN in care and care leavers are celebrating after graduating with flying colours from North Yorkshire’s 'virtual school'.

The graduation ceremony was held for those who have completed their secondary, post-16 or graduation course.

It brought together young people and their guests, along with county councillors and staff who have supported them.

The school supports all children in care in North Yorkshire.

Although children may attend other schools, the virtual school operates as one school with pupils on a virtual roll, ensuring that all looked-after children can make the best possible progress.

Guest speaker Keeley Clayton, a virtual school student who has now graduated from university, gave an inspirational talk about her journey from coming into care until her employment as a social worker with North Yorkshire County Council.

She said: “The virtual school provided me with equipment such as a laptop, which meant that I was able to complete work I had for college and then on to university.

“During my GCSEs I changed address and was travelling to and from different areas to complete my exams.

"Despite this, teachers were very accommodating to enable me to complete them with the rest of my peers.

“During my time in education I feel I have learnt so much thanks to the support from specialist staff.

"I am now a newly qualified social worker, so have been able to learn new skills along the way and I can’t wait to see what my future holds.”

Councillor Patrick Mulligan, Executive Member for Education and Skills, said: “Evidence shows that looked-after and previously looked-after children don’t meet national expectations as well as other children.

"However, the specialist support team at our virtual school does a great job in raising the attainment, progress and aspirations of all students, and helps those at risk of underachieving to have the same chance of success as anybody else.”