What is Alternative Provision?
Alternative Provision (AP) is education arranged for children and young people who, for various reasons, are not able to attend a mainstream school full-time. This might be due to exclusion, illness, or other challenges that make it difficult for them to thrive in a traditional school setting.
In Bromley, Alternative Provision is designed to help pupils re-engage with learning in a supportive environment that meets their individual needs. It offers a fresh start and a pathway back into education, training, or employment.
Why might a child with SEND need Alternative Provision?
Some children and young people with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) may find mainstream school environments overwhelming or unsuitable for their specific needs. This could be due to:
- Social, emotional, or mental health difficulties
- Struggles with behaviour or attendance
- A need for a more personalised or therapeutic approach to learning
- Being at risk of exclusion or having been permanently excluded
Alternative Provision can offer smaller class sizes, tailored support, and a nurturing environment where children can rebuild confidence, develop life skills, and make academic progress.
Bromley Trust Academy – Our Local Alternative Provision
Bromley Trust Academy (BTA) is the main provider of Alternative Provision in Bromley. It operates across three campuses, each offering specialist support:
Midfield Campus – For primary-aged children (4 to 11 years). This setting helps pupils build confidence and independence, preparing them for a return to mainstream school or transition to specialist provision.
Hayes Campus – For secondary pupils aged 11 to 16 who have been permanently excluded or are at risk of exclusion. The focus is on helping students achieve qualifications and move on to further education or apprenticeships.
Blenheim Provision – Supports pupils in Years 10 to 11 who are also receiving support from CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). This campus provides a calm, therapeutic environment to support both emotional wellbeing and academic success.
Across all campuses, BTA works closely with families to understand each child’s needs and create a personalised plan for their education and development.
Other Alternative Provision Providers
The council also work with a range of other alternative education providers. All the alternative education providers commissioned by the council are registered with Ofsted and are quality assured.
How to access Alternative Provision
There is no direct admission to Bromley Trust Academy. Referrals for admission can be made by the student’s school or through CAMHS to Gateway Panel.
Gateway Panel is a multi-agency panel that considers all referrals for Alternative Provision.
If you think your child may benefit from Alternative Provision, speak to your child’s school SENCO or your EHCP coordinator. They can help assess your child’s needs and explore the most suitable options.