Alternative education provision
What is an alternative provision?
The Department for Education's (DfE) definition of an alternative provision is as follows:
- education arranged by local authorities for pupils who, because of exclusion, illness or other reasons, would not otherwise receive suitable education;
- education arranged by schools for pupils on a fixed period exclusion;
- and pupils being directed by schools to off-site provision to improve their behaviour.
This definition is taken from Alternative Provision Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities January 2013
What happens in Plymouth?
There are a number of reasons why a pupil might need alternative provision. In Plymouth, there is a range of alternative provision in place to meet a variety of needs. This includes outreach support for children who are unable to attend school, support within the school environment, as well as short-term interventions away from the school site.
A key principle is that any pupil considered for alternative provision should be supported by a comprehensive plan. This plan should be person-centred, multi-agency, and underpinned by the assess, plan, do, and review process.
Schools that commission alternative provision for pupils retain responsibility for the progress and safeguarding of those pupils.
Who provides alternative education in Plymouth?
Arranged by the local authority
In Plymouth ACE Schools are commissioned to deliver alternative education provision. ACE works closely with the local authority and schools to develop packages of support for pupils of primary and secondary age. This offer includes provision for pupils who are unable to attend school because of a long-term illness or medical condition.
Arranged by schools
Schools are able to commission provision for primary and secondary aged pupils who they are concerned about. There are a number of providers in the city who offer a range of different packages so that schools are able to develop strategies so that the pupil's place can be maintained.
Schools are able to commission individual packages of support directly from ACE.
The Quay Partnership is a group of Plymouth special schools that work together to provide packages of support for children both on and off the school site.
Schools are able to commission a place at City College Plymouth from Year 9 for pupils who are finding it difficult to continue in a full-time mainstream placement.
Can I educate my child at home?
Yes, in some circumstances, you can educate your child at home. Read the home education policy.
Plymouth's Local Offer is organised into four main categories covering the following age ranges:
- Early years (0 to 5 years old)
- Primary (5 to 11 years old)
- Secondary (11 to 18 years old)
- Preparing for adulthood
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