Unregistered Alternative Provisions: A Fresh Take on Education!

We currently operate as an ‘unregistered’ Alternative Provider (AP) in Essex. This means we are not regulated by OFSTED or the Independent School Inspectorate. While most Alternative Provisions start out this way, rest assured that Futures-Essex Ltd has been built on current government legislation and policy to ensure best practice. Rather than rushing to become a registered Alternative Provision, we have prioritised assembling the right team, securing suitable premises, and developing expertise.

Here’s why we might be the perfect fit for you:

✅ Personalized Learning: Unlike mainstream schools, Futures-Essex can customize teaching methods and curriculum to meet each student’s unique needs.

✅ Smaller Classes: With smaller class sizes, we provide more individualized attention and support.

✅ Innovative Teaching: We use engaging and creative methods like hands-on learning, project-based education, and unique tools that might not be available in traditional settings. This can be a game-changer for students who thrive in non-traditional environments.

✅ Inclusive Environment: We welcome students from all backgrounds and needs. Our supportive environment is better suited to address issues like behavioural difficulties, neurodiversity, or other personal challenges.

✅ Fostering Independence: We encourage learners to take ownership of their education, helping them build essential life skills like self-discipline, time management, and independent problem-solving.

✅ Strong Community: We aim to create a close-knit community among students and staff. This supportive network can be particularly empowering for students who have struggled in larger, more impersonal school settings.

Our Method

Our primary aim is to facilitate the student's return to mainstream education, working in close partnership with designated schools and local authorities. We believe that a students time in an Alternative Provision should be an intervention not a destination. It is important that we offer the right support, at the right place at the right time

We start by helping our students “learn to be” before they can “learn to do” because their sense of self and emotional well-being forms the foundation for all other learning. According to child development theories, such as those proposed by Jean Piaget, children first develop basic cognitive and emotional skills before they can engage in more complex tasks. This initial stage involves building trust, forming secure attachments, and developing a sense of safety and identity.

To support our students, we have a SENCO and Qualified Therapy staff on site for each session. All our staff offer a trauma-informed approach to their teaching, creating a safe and supportive environment that helps students overcome these barriers and thrive academically.

Our ultimate aim is to reintegrate students back into mainstream education, employment, or training, equipping them with essential life skills and qualifications for success. 

Who Can You Work With?

We work with young people aged 10 - 16 and up to 25 if they have an EHCP or EOTAS Package who live in Essex including students in Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock. We aim to establish a nurturing environment specifically designed for those experiencing emotionally-based school avoidance, at risk of exclusion, struggling in traditional school settings, or in need of a helping hand. We value collaborative partnerships with schools, local authorities, third-party agencies, and parents/carers. Everyone is welcome to be part of the students journey and celebrate their success'.

How Can I Refer?

We can work direct with your child's school, local authority (Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock) or with an allocated social worker / SEN Team. Talk to your school’s inclusion lead if you think you might benefit from a referral to us. We can also offer our services to parents who wish to commission us to work with their child directly. You can book a meeting with us to discuss your child's needs here - https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/FuturesEssex@futures-essex.co.uk/bookings/
Once we receive a referral, a team member will contact the referrer to schedule a placement meeting to discuss the student’s needs. Following this meeting, our Provision Manager will arrange a suitable time to meet with the potential student and their family. A place at Futures-Essex will only be offered after these steps are completed.

When Do Your Sessions Take Place?

At Futures-Essex Ltd, we offer broad and balanced learning opportunities. Our layered curriculum includes 3 distinct pathways. A formal learning pathway (National Curriculum/GCSE), a semi-formal pathway (Functional Skills), and an informal pathway (ASDAN/AQA Unit Awards).

                         What Do We Teach?