We are pleased to share that the Home Office has published updated guidance for Child Students (26th March 2026), reflecting detailed feedback we submitted on the practicalities of educational guardianship. Many of the changes we proposed have been adopted, helping to bring greater clarity and flexibility for schools, guardians, and families.
Key Updates
The guidance includes a number of important updates, including:
- Permitted Care Arrangements
Clarifies the types of care arrangements allowed outside a Child Student’s core arrangement, including brief stays with parents, friends, or during school trips, provided parental consent is given. - Letters of Undertaking
Provides clear instructions on when a new letter of undertaking is required for changes to a Child Student’s living arrangement, including arrangements coordinated by guardianship organisations. - Emergency Situations
Introduces flexibility for urgent homestay placements – such as in cases of illness or unexpected school issues – allowing the letter of undertaking to be completed as soon as practically possible after the student is placed. - Role of Guardianship Organisations
Confirms that guardianship organisations can complete letters of undertaking on behalf of nominated guardians (homestays), provided consent is obtained and the nominated guardian (homestay main carer) signs the letter.
These updates represent a meaningful step forward for the sector, ensuring that processes are workable in real-life safeguarding scenarios.
We encourage all guardians and schools to review the full guidance to ensure compliance and best practice.
Resources:
For a full list of the changes, you can refer to the change table towards the start of each guidance document.