This is an evaluation report of the Boarding Provision for Vulnerable Children Pathfinder announced in the white paper 'Higher standards, better schools for all' (2005). The Pathfinder was intended to explore whether boarding school provision might be used to provide support, stability and improved life chances for a larger number of vulnerable children and young people. Ten local authorities and fifty boarding schools originally signed up to the Pathfinder.
The Thomas Coram Research Unit at the Institute of Education, University of London, was commissioned to evaluate the scheme between December 2006 and October 2008. Findings included an analysis of the motivations of those authorities and schools involved; factors affecting selection and success in placements; the effectiveness of partnership working between schools and children's services; funding; and policy implications for local and central government. This is recommended reading for those in local authorities involved in placements for children and young people.