Support for Families and Young People
Alternative Provision is education arranged for children who can’t attend a mainstream school full-time. This might be because of:
- Exclusion (temporary or permanent)
- Medical or mental health needs
- Behavioural or emotional challenges
- Special educational needs
What AP means for your child
- Continued Learning - Your child will still receive an education tailored to their needs, even if they’re not in a mainstream classroom.
- Personalised Support - AP settings often have smaller class sizes and more one-to-one support, helping your child feel safe, understood, and supported.
- Different Learning Environments - This could include:
- Pupil Referral Units (PRUs)
- Specialist schools
- Vocational training centres
- Therapeutic or outdoor learning settings
Focus on Wellbeing
- Many AP providers prioritise emotional and mental health, helping children build confidence, resilience, and social skills.
Pathways Forward
- AP can be a stepping stone—either back into mainstream education or towards further education, training, or employment.
Your Role as a Parent or Carer
- Stay involved in your child’s learning journey.
- Communicate regularly with the AP provider and your local authority or school.
- Ask questions about the curriculum, support available, and future plans.