Lucinda-Jane Smith was in foster care for five years, has just completed a degree in sociology and criminal justice and is now studying for a diploma in youth work. As chair of the management committee for A National Voice, the charity run by and for care experienced young people, she's critical of the myth that children in care don't achieve educationally. "They're the same as other young people. Being in care made me stronger. I really enjoyed being at school as it was an escape," she reveals.
However, figures released last week by the Department for Educational and Skills highlight the continuing gap in attainment between looked-after children and their peers (Children Now, 4-10 May). In 2004, only 43 per cent of 11-year-olds in care achieved level 4 at Key Stage 2, compared with 79 per cent of all children, and just 56 per cent of looked-after 16-year-olds got at least one GCSE, compared with 97 per cent of all young people.
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