Specialist Provision
At The Highcrest Academy, we are pleased to offer an on-site Alternative Provision for a small group of Key Stage 4 students who benefit from a different approach to learning. This provision is designed for students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) or for those who experience significant, long-term barriers to learning that require sustained curriculum adaptations.
Students are taught a range of subjects by an experienced specialist teacher in a dedicated classroom. Being taught by a single teacher provides consistency, stability, and strong relationships, which helps students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. Remaining in one environment reduces the need to move around the main school site, limiting exposure to crowded corridors and supporting emotional regulation and focus.
The classroom is spacious and well-lit, with dedicated breakout areas that allow for planned movement breaks throughout the day. This helps students maintain concentration, manage their energy levels, and remain positively engaged in learning. Learners also have access to iPads, and all lessons are carefully personalised to meet individual needs, supporting progress, independence, and confidence.
Students attending our in-house Alternative Provision usually follow an alternative curriculum rather than sitting GCSE examinations. However, we take a flexible, individualised approach and will enter students for GCSEs where this is the most appropriate and beneficial pathway for them. The subjects offered within the Alternative Provision include:
- Entry Level Maths
- Entry Level English
- Entry Level Science
- Entry Level Humanities
- Level 1 or Level 2 Home Cooking Skills
While students are based within the Alternative Provision classroom, they remain part of the wider school community. They attend Form time, Core PE, and PSHE Life Lessons alongside their peers in the main school and may also choose to socialise during break and lunchtime. Where needed, we can offer an early lunch to allow students to access the canteen in a quieter environment before noise and crowds increase.
This balanced approach ensures students feel included, supported, and successful, while receiving the structure and adaptations they need to thrive.