This meeting took place on 26 November 2014. Read the transcript here.
Alternative provision (AP), including Pupil Referral Units (PRUs), provides an alternative to mainstream education.
Academic outcomes for pupils in AP are poor. Some providers are criticised for not providing an academic education, but “do little more than keep their pupils off the streets”.
In London, there are 59 PRUs attended by approximately 3,000 pupils.
Many pupils referred to AP and PRUs are from very deprived backgrounds, and face a range of issues, including family breakdown, domestic violence, alcohol and drug problems and mental health issues. They are more likely than other children and young people to be known to the police and social services.
The London Assembly Education panel meets tomorrow to discuss the challenges faced in London by PRUs and AP and to explore how the Mayor’s education programme supports them.
The following guests will answer questions:
Seamus Oates – Executive Headteacher, Tri-Borough Alternative Provision (TBAP)
John d’Abbro – Head of New Rush Hall Group, Redbridge
Anna Cain – Chief Executive and Head of the Boxing Academy, Hackney
Gabrielle Grodentz – Head of Alternative Provision, Islington
The meeting will take place on Wednesday 26 November from 2pm in Committee Room 5, at City Hall (The Queen’s Walk, London SE1).
Media and members of the public are invited to attend.
The meeting can also be viewed via webcast.
Notes for Editors:
2. The Chair of the Education Panel, Jennette Arnold OBE AM, is available for interview – see contact details below.
3. As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
For media enquiries, please contact Alison Bell on 020 7983 4228. For out-of-hours media enquiries, call 020 7983 and ask for the Assembly duty press officer. Non-media enquiries should be directed to the Public Liaison Unit, on 020 7983 4100.