“We’re not the problem – we’re filling the gap”: Bath Rugby Foundation calls for honest conversation on Alternative Provision

Bath Rugby Foundation is calling for a national rethink on how the education system supports young people who have disengaged from school – and how it treats Alternative Provision (AP), especially providers classed as “unregistered”.

The charity, which delivers vital educational and life skills programmes for young people across B&NES, Wiltshire and Somerset, says that unregistered AP isn’t the issue. Rather, it’s a symptom of a system that no longer works for too many learners.

“If our education system worked for every child, there would be no need for Alternative Provision, “But it doesn’t. That’s why organisations like ours exist – to support those who’ve been left behind.”

What is Alternative Provision?

Alternative Provision refers to education that takes place outside of mainstream settings. It’s typically used for young people who’ve been excluded from school, have special educational needs, or are experiencing mental health challenges.

At Bath Rugby Foundation, students aged 16–25 who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET) take part in a tailored programme that combines sport, mentoring, emotional support and life skills – helping them rebuild confidence and find a new direction.

Why the “unregistered” label doesn’t tell the full story

Despite the importance of this work, some AP providers are described as “unregistered” – a term that can imply illegitimacy or risk. In reality, many fall outside of current registration frameworks simply because those frameworks were never designed with these kinds of programmes in mind.

“It’s like calling a private security firm ‘unregistered Police’,” We’re citizens stepping in where the state has fallen short. A small minority of providers may not follow the rules – but most of us are working to change lives, often without stable funding or recognition.”

According to the Centre for Social Justice, around 80% of children in unregistered APs are there because their needs – especially special educational or mental health needs – were not met in mainstream school. These young people have not failed; they have been failed.

Oversight already exists – but recognition and funding don’t

In the current academic year alone, Bath Rugby Foundation has been subject to 13 separate inspections by Ofsted-registered school leaders and local authorities. These reviews cover safeguarding, teaching quality, curriculum, and overall governance – with outcomes reported to Ofsted.

“There is already a significant level of oversight. The problem is not a lack of monitoring – it’s a lack of a system that recognises, funds and supports early intervention.”

By the time most young people arrive at Bath Rugby Foundation’s Alternative Learning Hub, they have already been out of school for more than a year. Often, the window for early help has closed.

“These are not children who failed in school – they were simply never truly seen. Their parents are exhausted, their confidence is shattered, and their trust in the system is gone. But when placed in the right setting, with the right support, they begin to thrive.”

A call for change – and collaboration

In response to recent comments by Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza on the risks within some AP settings, Bath Rugby Foundation welcomes the increased attention – but says it’s time to go further.

“Unregistered AP is a red flag – not a scandal. It’s a signal that our system is outdated and too rigid to meet the needs of all learners. Don’t ask us to register – show us a system that no longer needs us. And if you’re serious about creating that system, we’re ready to help build it.”

Bath Rugby Foundation is urging policymakers, education leaders and local authorities to work together to design an education system that truly includes – rather than excludes – the young people who need support the most.

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