Alternative provision

Also called AP, PRU, Pupil referral unit

Education arranged away from a mainstream school — for excluded pupils, or those who cannot attend one.

What it is

Alternative provision is education arranged by a local authority for pupils who, because of exclusion, illness or other reasons, would not otherwise receive suitable education — or arranged by a school for pupils on a fixed period exclusion or to improve behaviour.

Pupil referral units are one form of it. Others include AP academies, further education colleges, tuition services and charity-run provision.

Where it applies

Permanently excluded pupils, pupils out of school for health reasons, and pupils placed by their school for behaviour support.

How it works

Provision should be good quality, meet the pupil's needs, and where possible lead to reintegration. Statutory guidance expects clear objectives, agreed with the pupil and parents, and regular review.

Where a school commissions AP itself, the pupil normally remains on the school's roll and the school remains accountable for their education and safeguarding.

Quality varies enormously and hours are frequently far short of full time — which is where the section 19 duty becomes the question.

What you can ask for

Ask how many hours a week are actually being provided, and by whom, and whether that is full time. If it is not, ask why in writing.

Ask what the plan is: is this reintegration, or a permanent placement? Both are legitimate; drifting between them is not.

Ask how the curriculum leads to qualifications, and which ones.

Where to get help

The council's AP or inclusion team. IPSEA and Child Law Advice where the provision falls short.