Finding a different way forward when mainstream school is not working
Alternative provision can offer a different type of learning environment for children and young people who are struggling to manage, attend, or make progress in mainstream school.
For some children, mainstream school can feel too overwhelming, too large, too fast-paced, or not flexible enough for their needs. Alternative provision may provide smaller groups, practical learning, outdoor education, therapeutic support, vocational activities, mentoring, or a more personalised approach.
PACE Project UK is creating a growing directory of alternative provision options in Cornwall to help parents and carers explore what support may be available locally.
What is alternative provision?
Alternative provision is education or support that happens outside a child’s usual mainstream classroom or school setting.
It may be used when a child or young person needs a different approach because they are finding mainstream education difficult to access.
Alternative provision can include:
- outdoor learning or forest school
- vocational learning
- animal care or equine-based activities
- therapeutic education
- mentoring
- tutoring
- life skills
- creative learning
- small group learning
- reintegration support
- online or blended learning
- specialist support for children with SEND or anxiety
Some alternative provision is arranged by schools or local authorities. Some may be accessed privately by parents, depending on the provider and the child’s needs.
When might alternative provision be helpful?
Parents may start looking at alternative provision when their child is:
- struggling to attend school
- becoming very anxious or distressed
- spending a lot of time out of lessons
- not coping with behaviour policies or sanctions
- not making progress
- overwhelmed by the school environment
- unable to manage large classrooms
- at risk of exclusion
- already on a reduced timetable
- needing more practical, therapeutic or flexible learning
- waiting for a more suitable long-term education placement
Alternative provision is not one single thing. It can look very different depending on the child, the provider and the purpose of the support.
For some children, it may be a short-term bridge back into school. For others, it may form part of a wider package of education and support.
How can alternative provision be used?
Alternative provision may be used in different ways, including:
As short-term support
Some children may access alternative provision for a short period while school, parents and professionals work out what support is needed.
As part of a reintegration plan
Alternative provision may help a child rebuild confidence, routine and trust before gradually returning to school or increasing attendance.
As part of an EHCP or education plan
For some children with an Education, Health and Care Plan, alternative provision may form part of their agreed support or education package.
While waiting for a suitable placement
Some families explore alternative provision when their child is not accessing education properly and a more suitable placement is being considered.
To support confidence, wellbeing and engagement
Alternative provision can sometimes help children who have lost confidence in learning, feel disconnected from school, or need a different way to experience success.
Things parents may want to ask
Before choosing or agreeing to alternative provision, it can help to ask:
- What age range does the provider support?
- What needs do they usually work with?
- Is it education, mentoring, therapy, activity-based support, or a mixture?
- Are sessions one-to-one or in groups?
- How many hours or sessions are available?
- Who funds the provision?
- Can the school or local authority commission it?
- Is the provider registered or quality assured in any way?
- How is progress recorded?
- Is safeguarding information clearly available?
- Can it support children with anxiety, autism, ADHD, learning difficulties or other SEND?
- Is transport available or would parents need to arrange it?
- Can the provider contribute information for school meetings, EHCP reviews or professional discussions?
Important note for parents
Alternative provision can be very helpful, but it is important to understand how it fits into your child’s wider education plan.
If your child is on roll at a school, the school still has responsibilities. If your child has an EHCP, the provision in the plan should be specific and clear. If your child is unable to attend school, parents may need advice about the school’s and local authority’s duties.
PACE Project UK does not make decisions about suitability and does not replace legal, educational or professional advice. Our aim is to help parents find local options, ask useful questions and feel more informed when exploring support.
Browse alternative provision options
Use the directory below to explore alternative provision and alternative education options in Cornwall.
Each listing may include information such as:
- location
- age range
- type of provision
- needs supported
- activities offered
- referral route
- funding options
- contact details
- website link
We are continuing to add and update listings. Providers can contact PACE Project UK if they would like to add or amend their information.