The landscape of alternative provision in England is undergoing a significant transformation. The new government guidance, “Children missing education: statutory guidance for local authorities and schools,” is now legally binding, marking a pivotal moment for educators and safeguarding professionals.
This framework places a clear, proactive duty on schools and local authorities to not only track but also support children who are out of formal education. It directly addresses the challenges of an often-fragmented system and highlights the urgent need for robust, quality-assured solutions.
The new guidance recognises that children who are missing from education are at significant risk. These are vulnerable children who may be struggling with anxiety, mental health issues, or who have been subject to exclusion or have undiagnosed SEND needs. Without a suitable educational setting, they are at risk of underachievement, social isolation, and potential harm.
The previous approach, which often left gaps in provision, is no longer tenable. The new statutory duty demands a coordinated, systematic response to ensure every child receives their legal right to a suitable education.
The Rise of Accredited Online Alternative Provision
In this context, high-quality online alternative provision (AP) has emerged as a strategic and effective solution. Historically, the online AP sector has been unregulated, leading to concerns about quality and safeguarding. However, the introduction of the Department for Education Online Education Accreditation Scheme (OEAS) provides a vital new benchmark for excellence.
This accreditation offers schools and local authorities the assurance that a provider meets the Department for Education’s stringent standards for online education.
A prime example of a provider that has successfully navigated this new framework is EDClass. Their recent accreditation visit from Ofsted in April 2024 yielded findings that speak directly to the requirements of the new statutory guidance.
EDClass: Meeting Statutory Duties with Live-Supervised Learning
The Ofsted report found that EDClass “meets all the minimum standards for online education,” and crucially, that “safeguarding lies at the heart of all things in this setting.” This is a powerful validation of their model, demonstrating a clear commitment to protecting vulnerable children.
The EDClass model directly addresses the core challenges faced by schools in providing for children missing education. Instead of offering static, pre-recorded content, EDClass provides a live-supervised online classroom.
This live supervision is a “significant strength” of the provision, ensuring a safe and interactive learning environment. It allows for immediate intervention, real-time feedback, and the swift identification of any safeguarding concerns. This live, human-led approach stands in stark contrast to the ad-hoc remote learning often relied upon previously.
Personalised Education for Re-engagement and Success
Furthermore, the accreditation highlights the personalised nature of the education provided. The Ofsted report notes the use of “carefully considered individualised schemes of work” that are designed to meet each child’s specific needs.
This tailored approach is essential for children who have become disengaged from mainstream education. It helps them rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning, and make meaningful academic progress. The goal is not simply to provide a temporary fix but to foster a clear path to reintegration back into mainstream schooling, where appropriate.
As schools and local authorities adapt to these new statutory duties, the value of a DfE-accredited partner cannot be overstated. By working with a provider like EDClass, they can ensure that their most vulnerable children receive a high-quality, live-supervised education that improves attendance, boosts attainment, and, most importantly, keeps them safe.
This new era of guidance is a call to action, and purpose-built online AP is a key part of the solution.
Published By Louise – Head of SEND
If you’d like to learn about EDClass, get in touch by calling 01909 568338, sending an email to enquiries@edclass.com or booking a free online demonstration here.
