High-quality Alternative Provision: A guide for Local Authorities
Every Local Authority carries the same fundamental responsibility: to ensure that no young person falls through the gaps, especially when traditional school attendance becomes complex or impossible. Yet rising levels of SEND, EBSNA, medical needs and exclusion risk mean that securing consistent, high-quality alternative provision is more challenging than ever. This guide has been created to provide clarity by setting out what a safe, DfE-accredited online alternative provision should look like and how it can be commissioned with confidence.
Academy21 supports thousands of students across England and Wales through live, teacher-led lessons aligned to the national curriculum. As the UK’s largest provider of live online alternative provision and part of the Inspired Education Group alongside King’s InterHigh, we combine academic rigour with trauma-informed, relationship-based practice. The result is a provision that not only maintains educational continuity, but rebuilds confidence, safeguards wellbeing, and supports successful reintegration wherever possible.
Inside this guide, you’ll find a practical overview of our quality assurance processes, safeguarding framework, flexible commissioning models and partnership approach with over 100 Local Authorities. If you’re reviewing your alternative provision strategy or seeking a responsive, accountable partner, download the guide to explore how Academy21 can support your local area.
