But let’s be clear: internal provision isn’t a quick fix. Done well, it can reintegrate, re-engage and reignite a love of learning. Done poorly, it risks replicating the very barriers it seeks to dismantle – leaving pupils unsupported, disconnected, and further from success.
That’s why The Difference has published new research, What Works: Four Tenets of Effective Internal Alternative Provision. Drawing on programmatic work and research utilising insights from over 20 schools and dozens of practitioners and pupils, it offers practical tenets for leaders setting up or strengthening IAP.
Four Tenets for Strong Internal AP
Internal provision often emerges from urgency – a pupil in crisis, an uptick in suspensions – but without the tools to embed it well or a foundation in whole school inclusion. The Difference’s research identifies four essential tenets that distinguish effective, impactful provision:
- Unified with the mainstream
Strong IAP is fully embedded in the life of the school – its culture, expectations, systems, and staffing. Pupils remain connected to their peers and benefit from consistent routines, curriculum access and adult relationships. - Identifies learning, wellbeing, and safety needs
Effective provision begins with robust referrals and a deep understanding of each child’s needs. It’s not a disciplinary sanction, but a structured, intentional intervention involving coordinated support from across the school. - Balances academic progress and wellbeing
High expectations sit alongside emotional support. Great IAP doesn’t dilute learning – it adapts and scaffolds it, offering high-quality teaching and a nurturing environment that helps pupils re-engage and thrive. - Shaped by measurable pupil outcomes
Provision must be designed with impact in mind. That means data-informed planning, clear progress tracking, and supported transitions that ensure pupils move forward – whether reintegrating, securing qualifications, or finding the right next step.
These tenets are not abstract theory. They reflect what we’re seeing work in practice – from Rochdale to Devon, London to Nottingham – and they are having path-altering positive impact.
Professional Development for Leaders of Internal AP
To support more schools, trusts and local authorities to develop provision with purpose, The Difference is running Professional Development Days for IAP leaders.
Whether you’re starting out, scaling up or refining your approach, these days are designed to give you the tools, insight and network to lead provision that makes a difference.
- Day 1: Developing Effective Internal Alternative Provision
Explore the research. Dive into the seven pillars of effective provision. Use practical frameworks to assess your current model and plan for sustainable development. - Day 2: Continuos Improvement and Deeper Impact
Hear from leaders running impactful provision. Unpack case studies. Reflect on your local context and build relationships with peers leading similar work across the country.
This training is ideal for senior leaders, inclusion leads, and LA officers with strategic responsibility for internal provision. You’ll leave with clarity, practical tools, and renewed confidence.
A Moment of Opportunity
Internal provision is expanding rapidly and the practice has outpaced the policy, meaning a lack of clear national guidance. That brings risks, but also rare potential. Schools are not waiting for policy. They’re innovating, adapting, and putting children first.
Our job now is to ensure that this momentum is matched by quality. That’s why we’re sharing what works – and investing in leaders who are building something better.
As one inclusion lead told us: “Internal AP only works if it’s not just a space – but a mindset. Not where you send children to fix them, but where you show them they still belong.”
Want to learn more about The Difference’s professional development?
- Find out more about the Inclusive Leadership Course (ILC) , the most complete strategic CPD for leadership of inclusion.
- Register your interest in The Difference’s Internal Alternative provision development days, launching September 2025.
- Email jamie@the-difference.com to discuss how we can support your work.
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