A care leaver is a young person under the age of 25 who has spent time in local authority care (such as foster care, or residential children's homes). A care leaver will be eligible for support from the local authority's Leaving Care Team once they turn 18 and will be currently supported by a local authority when they enrol at Kingston University. If you are unsure of your eligibility or are a current student please contact us to discuss your situation.
A care experienced student is someone who has spent any amount of time in local authority care, such as foster care or residential children's homes, but may not meet the definition of a care leaver.
Our dedicated and experienced KU Cares team will be available to support you through your application, enrolment, your time at University and through to graduation. As well as a designated member of staff, the KU Cares team can advocate on your behalf throughout the University and within your local authority. We also signpost students to other opportunities to earn money and enhance your CV.
Here are some examples of how you can get involved at Kingston University:
If you are working with a care leaver or care experienced young person, that is looking to make an application to University, or to Kingston specifically, and you would like some guidance around applications, student finance, etc. then please get in touch with us.
If you work for a local authority, virtual school or work with looked after children please note that we provide Higher Education training and events for looked after children, please contact us to find out more.
If you would like to get in touch with the KU Cares team, please email KUcares@kingston.ac.uk.