Alternative provision: Damning report must be 'precursor to change'

An Ofsted investigation has revealed that too many students’ experiences of alternative provision are negative, due in no small part to a lack of clarity over who is responsible for the commissioning and oversight of places.

Ofsted’s report draws upon visits to six local areas and survey responses from 700 people working and learning within England’s alternative provision system, including students and their families.

It highlights examples of good practice and stresses that good registered alternative provision can provide a high-quality education to vulnerable young people. However, it warns that too many children’s experiences are negative.

Alternative provision is commissioned by schools or local authorities when students are excluded or cannot attend mainstream school for reasons such as complex medical, social or emotional needs.