Tools for Schools
Alternative educational provision is used to complement/supplement the provision in school. For example, this may include activities such as bushcraft, art, angling, forest schools and equine therapy.
New arrangements commissioning Independent Alternative Provision Nov 2021
Independent Alternative Provision: Partnership Agreement Mainstream Schools
Independent Alternative Provision: Partnership Agreement Free Schools and Academies
Alternative provision can be very helpful for learners:
• who cannot manage a full-time curriculum in school
• with social, emotional or health needs
• at risk of exclusion/exploitation
• needing support with transition
• who are disadvantaged
• who struggle to attend school
Schools can access the list of providers via a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) and can feel confident that the providers, who are non-regulated by OFSTED, will be subject to quality assurance and ongoing monitoring by WSCC.
Schools will join the DPS (maintained or Academy) and then make a referral through the DPS, which will include consideration of the child/young person’s needs and interests, as well as the timing and location of the provision. The DPS will then create a list of providers from which schools can assess which would be the “Best Offer” for the child/young person.
Provision is divided into five categories:
- Early intervention and prevention
- Vocational opportunities (including post 16 provision)
- Interim face to face tutoring for learners waiting an education placement or who have been excluded
- Online tutoring (also known as blended package)
- Complex learners
Schools can now commission provision through the framework.