The Difference
Strengthening Internal Alternative Provision: The Evidence, the Policy and the Practice
This session explores how schools can develop strong, coherent internal provision that meets pupils’ needs early and effectively.
Built on The Difference’s research into Internal Alternative Provision (IAP) and our publication Tenets of Effective Practice, we will share what the evidence tells us about designing provision that works.
Drawing on our work with MATs, local authorities, and schools and academies nationally, we will highlight the conditions that enable leaders to build sustainable, impactful internal systems - aligning pastoral, SEND and safeguarding approaches, reducing demand on external services, and ultimately improving whole-school culture.
The session will also point to updates in policy, Ofsted and what's likely in the year ahead.
More about The Difference
The Difference is an educational charity that tackles the social injustice of lost learning in England’s schools.
At its heart is a commitment to whole-school inclusion, when all staff support the learning, wellbeing, and safety needs of all children, so that they belong, achieve and thrive.
The Difference has recently launched a network bringing together school leaders to explore strategic and operational approaches to setting up, managing, and improving IAP. The stakes are high – no school leader wants to create a provision that becomes little more than a costly, short-term holding space before further suspension or permanent exclusion.
With careful planning, adequate resources, and a whole-school commitment to inclusive practices, IAP offers a promising path to supporting our most vulnerable students while strengthening the wider school community.
Ready to find out more?
Visit The Difference's website to find out more about their ongoing work.
