Alternative Provision & Ofsted Registration
What schools and parents need to know about Ofsted registration, quality assurance, and the legal duties around commissioning alternative provision.
Why registration matters
When a school or local authority commissions alternative provision, one of the first questions asked is whether the provider is registered with Ofsted. The answer is not always straightforward — it depends on the type of provider, the number of pupils, and how the placement is structured.
This guide explains the legal framework around Ofsted registration for alternative provision, the difference between registered and unregistered providers, and what schools should check before making a placement. It is written for headteachers, SENDCOs, and commissioners who need a clear, practical overview.
When does an AP provider need to register?
Under the Education and Skills Act 2008, an independent educational institution — including an alternative provision provider — must register with the Secretary of State (via Ofsted) if it meets certain criteria. Broadly, registration is required if the provider:
- Provides full-time education to five or more pupils of compulsory school age
- Provides full-time education to at least one pupil with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
- Is an independent school, including an independent special school
Part-time provision, or provision for fewer pupils on a short-term or intervention basis, may fall below the threshold for compulsory registration. However, providers that are not registered are not inspected by Ofsted, which means the commissioning school must take responsibility for quality assurance.
The Department for Education has issued guidance that schools should only use alternative provision they have thoroughly checked, whether or not the provider is registered. This places a clear duty on the commissioner — not the provider alone — to assure quality and safeguarding.
Registered vs unregistered providers
The distinction between registered and unregistered alternative provision is important, but it is not the only measure of quality. Both types of provider can deliver excellent outcomes — and both can fall short. What matters is the rigour of the commissioning process and the ongoing monitoring of the placement.
Registered providers
- Inspected by Ofsted against independent school standards
- Must meet statutory requirements for safeguarding, curriculum, and welfare
- Inspection reports are publicly available
- Subject to regulatory action if standards slip
- Often preferred by local authorities for EHCP placements
Unregistered providers
- Not inspected by Ofsted — no statutory inspection cycle
- Quality assurance rests with the commissioning school or local authority
- Often used for short-term, part-time, or early-intervention placements
- May offer more flexibility in curriculum and timetable
- Schools must carry out their own due diligence and monitoring
What schools should look for
Safeguarding policies
Ask to see the provider's safeguarding policy, staff code of conduct, and single central record of recruitment and DBS checks. Every adult working with pupils should have an enhanced DBS and appropriate training.
Curriculum and qualifications
Check what subjects are offered, whether pupils can sit GCSEs or functional skills, and how the curriculum is adapted for pupils with SEND or SEMH needs.
Attendance monitoring
Good providers track attendance rigorously and report back to the commissioning school promptly. Ask how they handle non-attendance and what their escalation process is.
Progress reporting
Schools should receive regular updates on the pupil's academic progress, behaviour, attendance, and wellbeing. Ask for examples of the reports they send.
Reintegration planning
The best AP placements include a clear plan for what happens next — whether that is return to mainstream, transition to further education, or a longer-term AP pathway.
Premises and safety
Visit the setting if possible. Check that the premises are safe, accessible, and appropriate for the pupils who will attend.
How Directional CIC works with schools
Directional CIC is an independent alternative provision provider based in Bedfordshire, working with schools across Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire. We work with schools on a case-by-case basis, and every placement begins with a conversation about the pupil's needs, the school's concerns, and what success looks like.
We provide full transparency on safeguarding, curriculum, attendance tracking, and progress reporting from day one. Schools receive regular updates, and every placement includes clear review points and a reintegration or transition plan.
If you are a school commissioning alternative provision and you want to understand our registration status, policies, and quality assurance processes, we are happy to share everything you need to make an informed decision.