North Yorkshire’s Virtual School supports children and young people in care to raise aspirations and access further and higher education opportunities. We provide personalised guidance through PEP meetings, helping learners explore post‑16 and post‑18 pathways, including university, training and vocational routes, as well as advice on applications and financial support.
We work with Inspiring Choices to support children and young people from KS2 upwards through Destinations events, introducing FE and HE settings for future education and career pathways and building confidence, ambition and aspiration over time.
We work closely with colleges, universities, training providers and the Leaving Care Team to support smooth transitions from further education into higher education, including guidance on finance and accommodation. Many universities offer tailored academic, financial and wellbeing support for care‑experienced students, alongside funding available through North Yorkshire Council.
Through strong partnerships, including Royal Springboard, we promote wellbeing, confidence and independence, supporting young people to thrive in higher education and beyond.
Useful resources and further guidance
- Financial Support for NYCC Care Leavers (NYCC)
- Undergraduate Support for Care Leavers (UCAS)
- Propel for care leavers, providing information on the support available at colleges and universities across the UK.
- Student Action for Refugees - information on Equal Access University Scholarships for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in the UK.
- Student Finance
- Leaving Care Core Offer
- Talking about Higher Education and the future
If you have any queries, please contact the Virtual School virtualschool@northyorks.gov.uk or Telephone: 01609 533231.
