Alternative provision (AP) plays a crucial role in supporting students who are unable to thrive in mainstream education due to various challenges such as social, emotional, or behavioural issues. Alternative Provision Curriculum should be designed to be flexible, inclusive, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.
Understanding the Alternative Provision Curriculum
Unlike mainstream schools, alternative provision settings are not legally required to follow the national curriculum. Instead, they are mandated by Ofsted to provide a broad and balanced curriculum that addresses academic, personal, and social needs. This flexibility allows AP settings to create a more personalised learning experience that can better engage and support students.
Want to know about our mock inspection service for AP, covering both Ofsted & ISSR compliance? Click here to find out more
Key Elements of an Effective AP Curriculum
- Personalised Learning Plans: Each student in an AP setting typically has a personalised learning plan that outlines their specific needs, goals, and the support required to achieve them. This individualised approach ensures that the curriculum is relevant and accessible to each student.
- Core Academic Subjects: While the curriculum is flexible, it often includes core subjects such as English, maths, science, and ICT. These subjects are essential for ensuring that students can achieve recognized qualifications and have the skills needed for future education or employment.
- Holistic Development: AP curriculums focus on the holistic development of students, addressing not only academic needs but also social and emotional well-being. This can include life skills, vocational training, and therapeutic support.
- Engagement and Motivation: Innovative teaching methods and a supportive environment are key to boosting student engagement and motivation. This can involve project-based learning, outdoor education, and other hands-on activities that make learning more engaging and relevant.
How can JMC support your Alternative Provision? Find out more about the CPD and services we offer this unique sector here
Best Practice in Alternative Provision
- Flexible Timetables: AP settings often use flexible timetables to accommodate the varying needs of their students. This can include shorter school days, part-time attendance, or a mix of on-site and off-site learning.
- Small Class Sizes: Smaller class sizes allow for more individualized attention and support, helping students to feel more comfortable and engaged in their learning.
- Strong Relationships: Building strong, trusting relationships between staff and students is crucial in AP settings. This helps to create a safe and supportive environment where students feel valued and understood.
- Multi-Agency Collaboration: Effective AP settings often work closely with other agencies, such as social services, mental health professionals, and youth workers, to provide comprehensive support for students.
Conclusion
Alternative provision settings play a vital role in supporting students who face significant challenges in mainstream education. By offering a flexible, personalised, and holistic curriculum, AP settings can help students achieve their full potential. Best practices such as personalized learning plans, strong relationships, and multi-agency collaboration are key to creating outstanding provision that truly meets the needs of each student.