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Internal Alternative Provision (IAP)

Last updated on 07 May 2025

Internal Alternative Provision (IAP) guidance for school leaders

Commissioned by Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) and produced by HFL Education, this guidance document supports school leaders in establishing and running an effective, sustainable Internal Alternative Provision (IAP).

The Department for Education may refer to this type of provision as an in-school unit or an internal alternative provision. However, within HCC and HFL Education, the term Internal Alternative Provision is currently used. This terminology may be subject to change as national guidance evolves.

An IAP provides structured, on-site support for pupils facing behavioural, emotional, social, or learning challenges, helping them overcome barriers and successfully reintegrate into mainstream education. This guidance outlines key considerations, leadership strategies, and best practices to ensure that an IAP is a high-quality, purposeful provision aligned with whole-school inclusion principles.

What does this guidance cover?

  • Defining the purpose and vision
  • Eligibility and needs identification
  • Leadership and staffing
  • Curriculum and quality of education
  • Behaviour and wellbeing
  • Transition and reintegration
  • Parental and stakeholder engagement

Who is this guidance for?

  • Headteachers and senior leaders considering or reviewing their IAP provision.
  • SENCOs and inclusion leads supporting pupils.
  • Pastoral and behaviour teams working with vulnerable learners.
  • Governors and trustees overseeing provision quality and accountability. 

Further support from HFL Education on IAP 

HFL Education offers more detailed guidance and bespoke consultancy to support school leaders in developing and quality-assuring their IAP. To discuss your school's needs and explore how we can assist, please contact your school’s SEA or Justine McDonald, email: justine.mcdonald@hfleducation.org 

Please note this support applies to IAP only not Alternative Provision.

Visit HFL Education for more inclusion and SEND resources.

Last updated on 07 May 2025