Statutory Information
About the School
Chances is a specialist school and alternative provision for children and young people who are unable to thrive in mainstream education.
We work in partnership with schools, local authorities and families to provide structured, supportive education placements that prioritise wellbeing, re-engagement with learning and positive outcomes. Our provision supports pupils at both primary and secondary age, with placements tailored to individual needs.
A Clear Purpose
Our Approach
As a setting delivering education, our role is to provide a calm, consistent and structured learning environment where pupils can rebuild confidence, develop positive behaviours and make meaningful progress.
Placements are designed to support pupils who may be experiencing challenges related to behaviour, emotional regulation, attendance, anxiety or social relationships. We focus on helping pupils stabilise, re-engage with education and prepare for their next steps, whether that is a return to mainstream school or progression to an alternative pathway.
Admissions and Referrals
Placements at our alternative provision are arranged through referring mainstream schools or local authorities.
Once a referral is received, we work collaboratively to:
Placements are designed to support pupils who may be experiencing challenges related to behaviour, emotional regulation, attendance, anxiety or social relationships. We focus on helping pupils stabilise, re-engage with education and prepare for their next steps, whether that is a return to mainstream school or progression to an alternative pathway.
gather relevant information about the pupil’s needs
agree expectations and support strategies
plan a start and transition into the provision
We aim to ensure each placement begins positively, with clear communication and a shared understanding of outcomes.
Referrals to our specialist school are made via the relevant local authority.
Curriculum and Learning
Our curriculum is designed to be accessible, purposeful and appropriate to each pupil’s stage of learning.
Teaching focuses on:
core academic skills
engagement and motivation
confidence-building and independence
preparation for future transition
Learning is delivered in small groups with high levels of adult support, allowing pupils to progress at a pace that works for them without feeling overwhelmed.
Behaviour, Wellbeing and Safeguarding
We place a strong emphasis on wellbeing, emotional regulation and positive relationships.
Our approach to behaviour is calm, consistent and restorative. Staff work closely with pupils to understand individual triggers, build coping strategies and reinforce positive behaviours.
Safeguarding is a priority across all aspects of school life. Clear policies and procedures are in place to ensure pupils feel safe, supported and listened to at all times.
Attendance
We recognise that attendance can be a challenge for pupils accessing Alternative Provision.
We work closely with referring schools, families and professionals to support improved attendance, build routines and encourage consistent engagement with learning.
Our Policies