Why Alternative Provision in Education Is Growing—and What It Means for the Future

Why Alternative Provision in Education Is Growing—and What It Means for the Future

Alternative Provision (AP) in education is growing—fast. More and more young people are stepping outside traditional classroom settings, and it’s raising important questions about the future of education in the UK.

At Inspired Schools, we work closely with children, teachers, and schools every day, and we’re seeing this shift firsthand. But what’s behind it? And what does it mean for the children, the schools, and the wider system?

What Is Alternative Provision?

Alternative Provision refers to education settings outside mainstream schools, designed to support pupils who, for various reasons, are unable to thrive in conventional classrooms. This could include children with behavioural challenges, mental health needs, SEND requirements, or those at risk of exclusion.

These settings range from small group environments and one-to-one tutoring, to structured programmes that include outdoor learning, vocational education, and therapeutic support.

Why Is the Demand for Alternative Provision Growing?

The need for Alternative Provision in education has risen sharply over the past few years. Here are some of the key reasons we believe this trend is accelerating:

• Increased recognition of neurodiversity and mental health needs
  Schools are better than ever at identifying when children need different support—but often lack the resources to provide it in-house.

• Pressure on mainstream schools
  Teacher shortages, reduced funding, and growing class sizes mean schools can struggle to provide tailored support for every pupil.

• Changing societal and family dynamics
  Many young people are dealing with complex home lives, trauma, or anxiety, which can make the traditional school model difficult to navigate.

• Post-COVID impact
  The pandemic has left a long tail of anxiety, disengagement, and behavioural shifts in children who missed key years of social and emotional development.

How Our PE Delivery Supports All Learners—Including Those at Risk of AP

At Inspired Schools, we believe high-quality Physical Education is a powerful tool—not just for fitness, but for behaviour, confidence, and inclusion. Our approach to PE is rooted in engagement, skill-building, and emotional development.

Here’s how our PE delivery makes a difference:

✅ Structured, Consistent Coaching

We provide experienced, well-trained coaches who deliver engaging PE lessons across primary schools. Our lessons are carefully planned and sequenced, aligned with national curriculum outcomes, and tailored to each school’s needs.

✅ Focus on Confidence, Not Just Competition

Our sessions focus on personal bests, not just winning. We help children of all abilities feel success in movement, helping those who often struggle in other subjects build self-esteem and resilience.

✅ Inclusion and Differentiation

We know that not all children learn or move the same way. That’s why our PE sessions are highly inclusive, with differentiated challenges, accessible equipment, and adaptive teaching strategies to meet diverse needs.

✅ Mentoring Through Movement

In some schools, we offer mentoring through PE—working closely with children who need additional emotional or behavioural support. This might include movement-based breaks, one-to-one activities, or using sport to encourage better decision-making and communication.

✅ Well-Being First

Our PE delivery promotes positive mental health through regular movement, outdoor learning, and a strong emphasis on enjoyment. Physical activity is a proven way to regulate emotions and reduce stress—critical tools for children at risk of disengagement.

Is Alternative Provision a Positive Step—or a Symptom of a Deeper Issue?

Here’s the big question: Is the rise of AP a sign of progress—or is it papering over the cracks of a system under strain?

At Inspired Schools, we believe Alternative Provision plays a vital role. When done well, it can offer children the personalised support, care, and opportunities they need to thrive.

But we also believe this moment calls for a broader rethink of education. Why are so many children struggling in mainstream settings? How can we build schools that work for more learners—not just the ‘average’ ones?

We don’t claim to have all the answers. But we are committed to being part of the solution.

Our Broader Vision

Through our curriculum PE delivery, playground markings, active learning resources, and developing wraparound and AP programmes, we are working to create sustainable systems that support all children—especially those who might otherwise fall through the cracks.

We’re also working towards creating community-based AP spaces that provide structured, nurturing, and meaningful experiences for young people, rooted in movement, mentorship, and well-being.

Let’s Keep Talking

We’d love to hear your thoughts:

• Why do you think Alternative Provision in education is growing?

• Is it working for the children you know or work with?

• What’s your experience—positive or challenging?

If your school or setting is looking for flexible support or interested in our PE or AP programmes, get in touch with us today.