Alternative provision settings offer educational opportunities for children who are unable to attend mainstream schools.
Alternative provision refers to education arranged by local authorities for pupils who, due to exclusion, illness, or other reasons, would not otherwise receive suitable education. It also includes education organised by schools for pupils on fixed-period exclusions and those directed to off-site provision to improve their behaviour (DfE 2013).
Additionally, schools can use alternative provision to prevent exclusions or to re-engage pupils in their education.
What Is a Pupil Referral Unit?
Pupil referral units (PRUs) are a commonly used form of alternative provision. They are ‘short-term provision’ schools that cater for learners who are unable to attend mainstream schools. PRUs are much smaller than mainstream schools, with lower class sizes and higher staff-to-pupil ratios.
Some students enrolled in a ‘long-term provision’ PRU can also attend additional forms of alternative provision off-site to complement their learning journey. This means they are dual registered, with their time split between their PRU and their usual mainstream school.
Who Can Attend Alternative Provision?
Local authorities, schools, and post-16 education providers may commission alternative provision for children and young people who face barriers to participating in mainstream education or training.
Who Is Responsible for Alternative Provision Arrangements?
The responsibility for arranging alternative provision depends on the reason it is required.
When a learner has been permanently excluded or is unable to receive suitable education within their mainstream provision due to illness or other reasons, it is the responsibility of the local authority to arrange alternative provision.
When a learner has been suspended (fixed-term exclusion) or directed off-site to help improve their behaviour, it is the responsibility of the school’s governing body to arrange suitable alternative provision.
When alternative provision is arranged for any reason other than permanent exclusion, the learner must remain on the school roll, and the school maintains a duty of care. To ensure good safeguarding of learners in placement, schools and providers are expected to liaise, record, and monitor attendance.
SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy 2025 - 2031
The SEND and AP Sufficiency Strategy (2025-2031), (published 27 March), establishes Dudley Council’s commitment to meeting the rising demand for specialist educational provision while promoting inclusive practices in mainstream settings for the next 7 years.