At St John’s CE Academy, we recognise that some of our pupils may have caring responsibilities at home. Being a Young Carer can have a significant impact on a child or young person’s education, wellbeing and wider school experience.

We believe every pupil should have equal access to education, regardless of the challenges they may be facing outside school. When a child helps to care for a family member who has a disability, physical or mental ill health, or difficulties linked to substance misuse, they may need additional understanding and support to thrive in school.

As an all-through school, we are committed to identifying Young Carers early and providing support from the earliest years through to age sixteen. We want every Young Carer to feel known, valued and supported so they can be safe, successful and able to flourish.

How We Support Young Carers

We can provide a range of support, including:

• opportunities for Young Carers to meet together, take part in activities and connect with others who understand their experiences
• confidential support, guidance and a trusted adult in school
• ensuring relevant staff understand a pupil’s circumstances, so children do not need to repeatedly explain their situation
• close partnership working with local Young Carers services and other external agencies
• consideration of alternative opportunities if caring responsibilities make it difficult to attend clubs, trips or activities outside the school day
• opportunities for pupils to check in with home when needed during the school day
• age-appropriate learning that helps pupils understand caring responsibilities, wellbeing and where to seek support
• where appropriate, we respond sensitively to genuine caring pressures at home
• access to our breakfast provision, offering a calm, welcoming start to the day

How to Get Help

If you feel your child is a Young Carer, or your family circumstances have changed, please contact your child’s class teacher, tutor or a member of our pastoral team. We are here to listen, help and work alongside families.

Be Free Young Carers

We are Be Free Young Carers – a proudly independent Oxfordshire charity leading the way in championing young carers.

We create real, lasting change for children and teenagers aged 8 – 17 who care for loved ones. Our support helps them rediscover their childhood, build confidence, and thrive.

Everything we do starts with people. 

We build strong, personal relationships with our young carers, their families, schools, and local communities as well as with our team, volunteers, and partners. Many of us bring lived experience, and we work in a culture that welcomes everyone to show up as their full selves.