Olympic javelin thrower Fatima Whitbread was an inspirational keynote speaker at this year’s Virtual School Conference.
The county council’s virtual school supports the education of children in care, care leavers, those previously in care and children with a social worker, providing advice to their carers and schools. The theme of this year’s conference was Reach for the Stars, with Fatima Whitbread giving an inspirational talk about her life.
She spoke about growing up in children's homes, discovering her passion for sport, being adopted into a loving family at 14, and then going on to international success as a world champion and Olympic medal-winning javelin thrower.
Fatima also spoke about the national campaign she is now leading, advocating for improvements in the care system and better rights and support for care-experienced children and young people.
In addition, a group of Lincolnshire care leavers talked about their experiences, their ambitions and who inspires and supports them to reach their dreams.
The conference was opened by Heather Sandy, Lincolnshire County Council’s executive director for children’s services.
Heather said: “One of the council’s key priorities is ensuring all children get a good start in life, including young people in care. The virtual school works closely with partners across the county to ensure these young people get the support they need to succeed.
"Fatima’s story shows just how much can be achieved, and that so many colleagues took the time to join us at this year’s conference shows the level of commitment here in Lincolnshire to helping other children and young people in care to thrive.”
The conference was attended by over 150 school and education staff, including senior leaders, designated teachers for children in care, designated safeguarding leads and members of the county council’s education team.