Alternative Provision explained

New guide for families

In Surrey, we believe every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential. We are committed to ensuring that all children have access to high-quality, inclusive education within their local communities.

Usually this will be in the child’s school. However, if this is not possible and all other avenues have been explored and exhausted, Alternative Provision (AP) ensures your child can continue learning in a way that meets their needs.

AP is education arranged for children of statutory school age (5 to 16) who cannot access suitable full-time education in school. This may be due to:

• physical or mental health (short- or long-term)
• suspension or permanent exclusion
• emotional or behavioural challenges
• other exceptional circumstances.

New guide for families

Following consultation with parent/carers, and in collaboration with Family Voice Surrey, we have developed new AP guidance for families. To help you better understand the AP process, the guidance clearly explains:

• What AP is
• The different types of AP available
• When and how a referral for AP might be considered

We hope this new guidance answers some of the questions you might have so you feel more informed about AP.

Who should I speak to about AP?

As it is the school’s responsibility to provide your child with a suitable education, if you have any concerns about your child’s needs, please speak to your school’s Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinator (SENCO) in the first instance.

If your child is not in a setting but has an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP), then you should contact their EHCP Coordination Officer in the first instance. If your child does not have an EHCP, they should contact the Surrey Attendance Service (SAS) by calling the L-SPA (open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, all year round, except Bank Holidays).