Alternative provision and Pupil Referral Units

Alternative provision ensures full-time education for pupils unable to attend mainstream schools, while Pupil Referral Units support those excluded or at risk of exclusion.

All children and young people, with or without special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) have the right to education. 

This means that all educational settings must support children and young people to access education, and
ensure their needs are met.

Alternative provision

Sometimes, your child’s school or setting are unable to fully meet their needs, and alternative education may be considered.

Alternative Provision (AP) is for pupils who cannot attend a mainstream school. This can be because of health, emotional or behavioural reasons.

AP can include:

  • education arranged by Local Authorities
  • education arranged by schools and settings
  • your child moving to an off-site provision. This is often to improve their behaviour and/or prevent permanent exclusion

If your child is in alternative provision

Your child’s education provision should:

  • be full-time (between 18 and 25 hours),
  • not be more than15 hours a week if they are getting one to one tuition
  • be suitable taking account of their age, ability and any SEND they might have

If your child is attending an AP on a part-time basis, they should attend their home school on the other days.

Pupil Referral Units

A Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) is a type of school that provides education to children and young people who are:

  • at risk of exclusion
  • permanently excluded
  • not attending their school for other reasons, including medical needs

South Cumbria Pupil Referral Service .

Further information

A Guide to Understanding Pupil Referral Units and Supporting Your Child’s Education - Active SEN