Education Monday's: Alternative Provisions

Stacey Page

stacey.gabsbitesizeblogs@gmail.com

Their vision, their future.

As I've said in my previous blogs, I work for a company that provides alternative education to young people whose needs weren't being met by locals schools previously.

I think sometimes we jump to the conclusion that it's the schools fault, or maybe the authorities, or perhaps even the parents? Or, how about maybe the needs of the child are so complex that it is a collective issue to ensure they can progress with maximum support and 1-2-1 education. This isn't necessarily someone's fault; it could just be that the right place isn't available or hasn't been created yet.

I was always told as a mum it takes a village to bring up a child, I think education is the same. This is where alternative provisions excel, these incredible (yes I am biased) education hubs are known for unpicking the needs of the children and trying their hardest to ensure the child's voice is heard, and, they have the opportunity to excel. With subjects including mechanics, hairdressing, carpentry, plumbing and many more- alternative education is about creating a skills-based school for young people who have creativity and maybe cannot cope in a classroom of 30 children.

So what does this mean for the young person?

The young person can choose a subject they are interested in, they can choose what the want to learn, create and build. They have the opportunity to work with talented professionals who have the passion to teach the skill they love and most of all having lived experience. Now lived experience is different for each individual but what this basically means is that we can relate. We can relate to difficulties in school or life or basically anything and everything.

My view is that every child deserves a chance at education but this needs to be tailored to the needs of that child. There will also be young people who fall through the gaps of education but this doesn't mean that they will fail. I left school with nothing and now I have a teaching degree!

Anything is possible with the right support.

Find your village, educate yourself and then the rest will follow.