Let us learn: Systemic inquiry into the educational experiences of children and young people in out-of-home care

The Let us learn: Systemic inquiry into the educational experiences of children and young people in out-of-home care report was tabled in the Victorian Parliament on Thursday 16 November 2023.

Read the full report

Our inquiry examined the educational experiences of children and young people in out-of-home care, including the factors that affect their educational outcomes and ability to stay engaged in education.

Our findings and recommendations drew on:

  • consultations with 101 children and young people, and surveys with a further 88 children and young people, from all across Victoria who were living in or had recently left care
  • consultations with over 350 other stakeholders across Victoria, including carers, educators, Child Protection practitioners and staff of community service organisations and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations
  • submissions from individuals and organisations
  • data and information from the Department of Education and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.

Our inquiry revealed substantial disparities in educational outcomes for children and young people in care compared to their peers. Children and young people spoke to us about their eagerness to learn and do well at school. Yet, they face significant barriers that affect this in the child protection, care and education systems.

We worked with the Commission’s Youth Council as well as other children and young people with a lived experience of the care system. These children and young people provided input into our findings and many of the 47 recommendations we made to the child protection, care and education systems. The Commission hopes that the inquiry report will drive reform to improve educational experiences and outcomes for children and young people in care.

View the report (PDF).

Download a Word version.

View the stakeholder kit.

Read the media releases.