Understanding Unregistered Alternative Provision: Dispelling Myths and Supporting Young People

In recent years, some of our commissioning local authorities and schools have expressed some concern surrounding the distinction between unregistered Alternative Provision (AP) and illegal schools. At the same time, we are hearing loud and clear the message that all children and young people should be in school. As a key provider in this space, we believe we have a duty to address these concerns, and to speak for our young people, many of whom need support from providers like ourselves as part of their journey back into full-time education. 

What is Unregistered Alternative Provision?

Unregistered Alternative Provision refers to educational settings that offer part-time, flexible education for young people. These provisions are often designed to support those who cannot access full-time mainstream education due to medical, emotional, or complex additional needs. Unlike illegal schools, which operate as unregistered full-time institutions, unregistered APs provide tailored educational packages that complement other forms of support, including therapy and medical care.

Some unregistered APs have dedicated venues, while others operate wherever a child requires support, such as their home, school, or a community hub. Currently, there is no official regulatory body for these provisions, despite their vital role in the education system.

Why is Unregistered AP Necessary?

Unregistered APs play an essential role in ensuring that young people with diverse needs receive high-quality education. In 2023, an estimated 17% of the 67,600 AP places commissioned were with unregistered providers, demonstrating the demand for flexible, specialist education.

The kinds of young people who we see making significant progress with our support are:

• Those who have become disengaged from school and are either excluded or emotionally based school avoiders (EBSA).Those who have become disengaged from school and are either excluded or emotionally based school avoiders (EBSA).
• Those who have experienced trauma and dysregulation, and require the support of a trusted adult to make the most of their education (for example looked-after children, or those with a Social Worker).
• Those waiting to transition to a special school place when it comes available.
• Those whose additional needs are complex and cannot be met in a school setting. For example children and young people who receive EOTAS (Educated Other Than At School) or those with life limiting illnesses.

The outcomes for these young people vary; some successfully reintegrate into mainstream settings, while others require long-term tailored education. Regardless of their circumstances, all children deserve access to safe, high-quality, and aspirational education.

Targeted Provision: Trusted by 160 Local Authorities

As one of the largest unregistered AP providers in England, Targeted Provision has supported over 8,000 young people since 2019. Working with local authorities and schools nationwide, we deliver bespoke educational packages designed in collaboration with SEND specialists to ensure the best outcomes for each young person.

Our mission is to bridge the gap for young people who are left without suitable educational options. Through flexible support, trauma-aware professionals, and a commitment to safeguarding, we provide a crucial lifeline to young people who might otherwise disengage from education entirely. Since 2020, nearly 1,000 of our young people have successfully transitioned back into a suitable full-time setting.

Addressing Concerns and Setting Standards

The increasing number of unregistered APs has led to concerns about quality, transparency, and safety. Some have likened the sector to the "wild west," questioning who these providers are, how they operate, and whether they ensure the safety and progress of their young people.

To address these concerns, the Department for Education (DfE) has proposed developing National Standards for unregistered provision. At Targeted Provision, we fully support this initiative and have proactively introduced Targeted Provision’s Standards, aligning with existing education legislation, including:

• Keeping Children Safe in Education (2024)
• NSPCC Safer Recruitment Training and Guidance
• The Ofsted Handbook
• The Independent Schools Standards
• Government Alternative Provision guidance (2013)
• Working Together to Safeguard Children and Improve School Attendance

By sharing these standards, we aim to provide greater transparency and accountability in the sector. We believe that robust regulation will lead to more effective commissioning of AP, ensuring young people receive the right support at the right time to achieve their potential.

A Case Study: Sam’s Story

To illustrate the impact of our work, we want to share the journey of one of our young people, Sam*.

Sam, a Year 10 student with an EHCP for Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), lost both of his parents at a young age. When his grandfather, his primary caregiver, passed away, Sam developed severe agoraphobia and withdrew completely from education. By the time he was referred to us, he had not left his bedroom or spoken to another person face-to-face for months.

Unlike a formal school setting, which might have recorded Sam as absent, our flexible approach allowed his tutor to build a relationship at his own pace. Initially, she communicated by passing notes under his door and speaking with his grandmother. Over time, they bonded over a shared love of film, which gradually led to history and English lessons. After 18 months, Sam left his bedroom to study at the kitchen table and successfully passed his Functional Skills exams. Today, he has applied for college, a milestone that once seemed impossible.

Sam’s story is just one of many. Across the country, thousands of children are missing out on education due to complex mental health challenges. Unregistered AP provides them with a lifeline, offering truly flexible, student-centred learning tailored to their needs.

Looking Forward

At Targeted Provision, we are dedicated to ensuring that every young person, regardless of their circumstances, has access to high-quality education. By championing transparent standards, working collaboratively with local authorities, and continuously improving our safeguarding and mental health support, we are helping to shape a more inclusive and effective education system.

It is our hope that through better regulation, increased awareness, and strategic collaboration, unregistered AP will be recognised as an essential intervention, providing children like Sam with the support they need to learn, grow, and succeed.

*Names have been changed for privacy reasons.

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