A System in Dire Need of Reform
Alternative Provision (AP) in England is at a critical juncture. A recent report published by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) sheds light on the pressing issues within the AP system, revealing a landscape marked by inconsistency, lack of oversight, and often, negative experiences for the children and young people it aims to support. Aimed at a UK demographic of men and women aged 25-55, this friendly and journalistic exploration delves into the need for urgent reform to better serve our nation’s youth.
The Current State of Alternative Provision
Good registered AP is known to provide high-quality education. However, too many children find themselves in situations that fall far short of this standard. The report highlights a worrying lack of national standards in the commissioning and oversight of AP, leading to a patchwork of experiences and outcomes. Unclear roles and responsibilities at the local level further exacerbate this inconsistency, creating a disjointed picture across the country.
The Challenges Ahead
The Need for Clear National Standards
The absence of clear national standards and guidelines around AP commissioning and oversight is a significant barrier to consistency. This gap has led to a situation where children and young people, especially those excluded from mainstream schooling or with complex needs, face a lottery in the quality of education and support they receive.
The Impact on Children and Young People
Many of those attending AP experience disrupted education, with some describing their journey through the system as “soul-destroying”. The emotional toll on students and their families is immense, with feelings of abandonment and a lack of support being common themes. Despite some examples of good practice, authorities do not consistently monitor the overall effectiveness of AP placements, and they often make decisions regarding placement without thorough consideration.
Recommendations for Improvement
The report sets forth several key recommendations aimed at transforming the landscape of AP in England. Among these are the development of better guidance on the purposes of AP, clearer roles and responsibilities for local partners, and the introduction of a proportionate registration and inspection regime. These measures aim to ensure that children in AP receive the education and care they deserve, focusing particularly on improving oversight and consistency in decision-making.
Voices from the Top
Sir Martyn Oliver, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, emphasizes the invaluable support good AP can offer but also acknowledges the need for clarity and consistency to ensure positive experiences for all children. Likewise, Nigel Thompson of the CQC additionally calls for improvements in commissioning and delivery to meet the comprehensive needs of children and young people in AP.
The Path Forward
The report from Ofsted and the CQC is a call to action for all stakeholders in the AP system. Moreover, with the Department for Education’s SEND and AP improvement plan on the horizon, there is renewed hope for a system that better serves the needs of vulnerable children and young people.
Consequently, by embracing the recommended reforms, partners across health, education, and social care can collaboratively work together to deliver the improvements desperately needed in alternative provision.
