Not all children have an equal start in life. The early years of adopted children have often been blighted by neglect and abuse and they are coming to school too hurt to learn. Many are failing academically and their behaviour is often disrupting school life for everyone. They are 20 times more likely to be excluded than their peers.

We want governments to work with educators and families to ensure that schools are able to meet the challenge of educating these highly vulnerable children.

Let's give adopted children an equal chance at school. Pledge your support for an #equalchance by signing the Equal Chance petition.

Comments from parents and carers Vanessa W: “I’ve seen first hand the struggles and how it’s effected emotionally both the children and the parents.” Isabelle L: “Because all children deserve a good start in life - regardless of their home life or background. In some cases they deserve a better start because of their home life or background!“ Joanne R: "This is important to me on both a professional and personal level. My sister's are about to embark on their educational battle with my gorgeous nephew and as a teacher I want to be equipped to do my best for every child in my classroom in the best possible way."

We will deliver this petition to politicians across the 4 nations of the UK

SIGN THE PETITION

            

           NAHT President, Andy Mellor                                              Baroness Walmsley  

                              

See who’s already signed:

MPs/MSPs/AMs

England

• Nadhim Zahawi MP, Minister for Children and Families
• Emma Lewell-Buck MP, Shadow Minister for Children and Families
• Sir Vince Cable MP, Liberal Democrat Leader
• Rachael Maskell MP
• Tim Loughton MP
• Norman Lamb MP
• Nic Dakin MP
• David Lammy MP
• Sir Oliver Heald MP
• Victoria Prentis MP
• Chi Onwurah MP
• Sir David Amess MP
• George Howarth MP
• Baroness Walmsley
• Earl of Listowel

Wales

• Julie Morgan A.M.
• Dawn Bowden A.M.
• Lynn Neagle A.M.
• Llyr Gruffydd A.M.
• Kirsty Williams A.M. (Cab Sec for Education)
• Lee Waters A.M.
• Sarah Merry (Deputy Leader & cabinet member for Education, Cardiff County Council)
• Councillor Alan Lockyer (vice chair NAS)