In relation to school admissions legislation, a 'Looked After Child' is a child in public care at the time of application to a school. Children who are in the care of local authorities as defined by Section 22 of the Children Act 1989.
Previously Looked After Children (PLAC) are children who were looked after, but ceased to be so because they were adopted, or became subject to a special guardianship order or child arrangements order (the child arrangements order must address the residence of the child).
Internationally adopted previously looked-after children (IAPLAC), have been in state care outside of England and ceased to be in state care as a result of being adopted.
The admissions process for Looked After Children
Looked After Children, and internationally adopted previously looked after children, are usually given the highest priority for a school place, but you should refer to each school's admission policy, in particular faith schools.