On February 5th 2025, The UK Department for Education (DfE) released updated guidance on arranging alternative provision (AP) for children who cannot access mainstream education due to exclusion, illness, or other reasons. This guide (Click here to read the full guide) outlines statutory responsibilities, best practices, and funding for local authorities and schools when placing children in AP.
Key Takeaways
Statutory Duty – Local authorities must ensure suitable, full-time education for children who cannot attend school (Education Act 1996, Section 19). Schools must arrange education from the sixth day of a suspension.
Quality & Safeguarding – AP must be safe, high-quality, and tailored to each child’s needs, whether academic, behavioural, or emotional. Providers should meet educational standards and have safeguarding measures in place.
Early Intervention & Reintegration – Schools should work with AP providers to prevent exclusions, support behaviour management, and help children transition back to mainstream education or into post-16 pathways.
Funding & Oversight – AP funding comes from local authority high needs budgets, top-up funding, and school contributions. Schools and councils must closely monitor placements and ensure AP is sustainable and effective.
Flexibility in Education – AP settings can include pupil referral units (PRUs), Further Education (FE) colleges, vocational training, remote education, and unregistered providers (which must meet local standards). Full-time education is expected, but part-time arrangements can be made where necessary.
Collaboration is Key – Schools, local authorities, health services, and social care teams must work together to ensure the best outcomes for children, particularly those with Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) or additional needs.
This updated guidance clarifies when and how AP should be used, emphasising early intervention, safeguarding, and reintegration. It provides a framework for ensuring every child receives a suitable education, regardless of their circumstances.
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Sources:
Alternative provision – GOV.UK
Arranging Alternative Provision – guide for LAs and schools
