FD SUPPORTING TEACHING AND LEARNING IN SCHOOL Positive behaviour and raising self esteem

Alternative provision Children and young people educated in alternative provision (AP) are among the most vulnerable. They include pupils who have been excluded or who cannot attend mainstream school for other reasons: for example, children with behaviour issues,

Alternative provision Pupil referral units (PRUs) PRUs are one type of AP. They are local authority establishments which provide education for children unable to attend a mainstream school. 393 PRUs in operation on 15 February 2013 https://www.gov.uk/government/policies/improving-education-for-pupils-outside-mainstream-school

What is the PRU? When a pupil is having difficulties in a mainstream school and might be (or has been)permanently excluded they may be referred to the Pupil Referral Unit or PRU for short The PRU is a school. We teach the same National Curriculum and offer the same level of qualifications as a mainstream school.

So what is different? As well as the academic work we help pupils address their emotional and behavioural barriers to learning. We work with pupils “one to one” or in small groups to address their individual needs. Each centre has experienced teachers and support staff who work with other professionals and services to provide a wrap round service to help your child develop and meet their specific needs.

So what is different? We provide a broad, balanced curriculum, with focus on the core subjects of Maths, English and including other enrichment such as Outdoor Education to help pupils to work together, challenge themselves and address their behaviours. We aim for pupils to be able to return to a mainstream school. Some pupils are with us for a few weeks, other longer depending on their needs. (Manchester Secondary PRU) http://www.mspru.manchester.sch.uk/whatisthepru.shtml

What is it like? http://www.musttryharder.net/2012/05/whats-it-like-working-in-a-pupil-referral-unit/ This is a blog from someone who has worked in a Pupil Referral Unit

Task What sort of skills would be appropriate when working with pupils with behavioural issues in a PRU? Research the use of the Nurture initiative in schools. What does Ofsted say about Nurture as an intervention for behavioural issues. http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/supporting-children-challenging-behaviour-through-nurture-group-approach

EXCLUSION Types of exclusion There are 2 kinds of exclusion - fixed period (suspended) and permanent (expelled). They can only be removed for up to 45 school days in 1 school year. https://www.gov.uk/school-discipline-exclusions/exclusions