Why people working in education make great foster carers

Why people working in education make fantastic foster carers

If you work in education – whether as a teacher, teaching assistant, or in a support role – you already have skills and experience that can transform a child’s life. You’re committed to helping children thrive, and that makes you an ideal candidate for fostering.

Your experience matters

Spending time with children every day gives you a deep understanding of their needs. You know how to be patient, playful, and accepting. Your safeguarding training means you’re aware of the challenges some children face early in life. These qualities are exactly what children in care need: love, stability, and encouragement.

Listening and supporting

Children in care often struggle to manage big emotions. Their behaviour can be a way of expressing feelings they can’t put into words. Your experience in calming situations and helping children feel heard is invaluable. These moments of connection build trust and security, which are the foundations for healing and growth.

Advocating for education

Children in care often miss school or fall behind academically. As a foster carer, you’ll play a key role in supporting their education. Your knowledge of the school system means you can advocate for their needs and help them access the right support.

Providing structure and stability

Routine and boundaries help children feel safe, especially when life has been unpredictable. Many children in care have missed out on simple routines like regular meals or bedtime. Your ability to set expectations and celebrate achievements can make a huge difference. As a foster carer, you’ll offer the stability and positive habits that help children flourish.

Safeguarding knowledge

Keeping children safe is at the heart of fostering. If you’ve worked in education, you already understand safeguarding and how to respond if a child is at risk. Fostering training will build on this, giving you tools to support children who’ve experienced trauma and helping you create secure, trusting relationships.

Seeing the whole child

Education isn’t just about lessons – it’s about helping children discover their strengths, building confidence, and celebrating progress. For children who’ve experienced trauma or disruption, having someone who understands how they learn and grow can be life-changing.

You’re already skilled at forming positive relationships with young people. Those trusted connections help children feel safe and understood – something every foster child needs.

Insights from foster carers who have a background in education

“I loved my work, but I was keen to do something to help children who come into the care system and need long term support to get their lives back on track and to have a chance of achieving their potential.”

“To be a great foster carer you need a few skills – you need to be flexible and willing to put the child at the centre of what you do. You need a good sense of humour and a willingness to try new things. You need to be a lifelong learner who is willing to engage in training opportunities and try out new approaches.”

“Helping a child feel safe and valued is at the heart of teaching and fostering. If you’ve ever thought about it, you already have what it takes.”

Why we need people like you

Brighton & Hove urgently needs foster carers from all walks of life – and education professionals bring unique strengths. Whether you’re working full-time or have school holidays free, there are flexible fostering options, including:

emergency fostering during school breaks
weekend stayovers to give children more trusted adults in their lives
Supported Lodgings for older teens preparing for independence

You’ll receive full training, ongoing support, and competitive allowances – all while making a life-changing difference for a child in Brighton & Hove.

We’re looking for foster carers who can support all the different types of fostering we provide. If you would like to find out more, get in touch.