Alternative Learning
Re-Engagement and Transition for Learners Who Need a Different Pathway
Keys Alternative Learning extends this journey by preparing learners for greater independence when flexible, curriculum-led learning is both clinically and academically appropriate. The programme supports transition into any other Keys offering in education, training or employment.
Introducing Keys Inclusion Pathways
Keys Inclusion Pathways offer a range of trauma-informed and technology-enabled education opportunities. For those learners who cannot currently access traditional or specialist schools, they take education ‘beyond the classroom’, delivering personalised learning designed to help children re-engage with education safely, confidently and sustainably.
Keys Alternative Learning is a re-engagement and transition programme offering a structured blend of online and face-to-face learning, vocational opportunities and enrichment experiences. It is a high-support, fixed-term intervention created to stabilise learners, rebuild routines and prepare young people for reintegration into education or progression to training or employment.
This hybrid alternative provision combines tutor-led sessions, targeted interventions, structured online learning and practical enrichment activities. It supports learners to develop the habits, confidence and executive functioning skills required for sustained engagement in their next educational setting.
Typical delivery ranges from 2–18 hours per week across 12–14 weeks, with a curriculum that blends academic, vocational and enrichment elements. Learners can work towards multiple qualifications at once, while developing the social confidence, resilience and routines necessary for their next steps.
Who Keys Alternative Learning Is For
Keys Alternative Learning supports children and young people who:
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Have Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA)
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Are accessing Education Other Than at School (EOTAS)
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Live within residential care
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Need short-term intervention before returning to a school or provision
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Have SEND, SEMH or additional needs
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Benefit from a structured and time-limited pathway toward reintegration
It is best suited for learners who are ready for more predictable routines and who can benefit from a supported pathway into their next placement or qualification.
By focusing on readiness to learn, daily structure and emotional stability, Keys Alternative Learning helps learners feel more equipped, confident and prepared for their future.
A Six-Pillar Hybrid Programme
The programme is delivered through six interconnected pillars:
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1:1 face-to-face tuition, covering numeracy, literacy, independent living skills and accessing the community
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1:1 online tuition supporting progress toward accredited qualifications
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Outdoor learning opportunities through PEAK Activity
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Enrichment and vocational activities tailored to interest and future goals
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Careers guidance with Level 7 qualified advisors and employability support
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EHCP-aligned interventions, including educational psychology, speech and language support and therapeutic input
Every learner receives an individualised 15-hour education plan designed collaboratively with parents/carers and all professionals involved.
Qualifications and Assessment
Keys Alternative Learning is a registered exam centre with the flexibility to deliver exams in the learner’s home when needed—particularly important for anxious or complex learners. Modular qualifications offer a personalised route to achievement.
Available qualifications include:
· English (Entry Level 1 to Functional Skills Level 2)
· Maths (Entry Level 1 to Functional Skills Level 2)
· ICT/Digital Skills (Entry 3 to Level 2)
· PSHE (Level 1 and 2)
· Employability Skills (Level 1 and 2)
· AQA Unit Award Scheme
· ASDAN
· Open Awards
· Outdoor Learning GCSE (Level 1 and 2)
· Agored qualifications (Entry Level to Level 2)
Keys Alternative Learning FAQ's
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What is Keys Alternative Learning?
Keys Alternative Learning is a short-term re-engagement programme designed to stabilise learners and prepare them to return to education, training or employment pathways.
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How long does the programme last?
The programme typically runs for 12–14 weeks, with 2–18 hours of learning per week, depending on the learner’s needs.
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What does the programme include?
Learning is delivered through a six-pillar model, which may include:
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1:1 face-to-face tuition
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Online learning
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Outdoor learning with PEAK
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Vocational and enrichment activities
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Careers guidance
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Specialist interventions linked to EHCP support
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Who is this programme suitable for?
Keys Alternative Learning supports learners who:
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Experience EBSA or EBSNA
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Access EOTAS provision
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Live in residential care
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Need a structured intervention before returning to scho
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What outcomes can learners achieve?
Learners develop:
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Routines and readiness for learning
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Improved confidence
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Social and executive functioning skills
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Qualifications and employability skills
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View all Keys Inclusion Pathways
Keys Inclusion Pathways offer a range of trauma-informed and technology-enabled education opportunities. For those learners who cannot currently access traditional or specialist schools, they take education ‘beyond the classroom’, delivering personalised learning designed to help children re-engage with education safely, confidently and sustainably.
Therapeutic and Specialist Support
Learners have access to a wide range of interventions including Emotion Coaching, Lego Therapy and Language for Behaviour and Emotions. The programme also benefits from support from Keys' Clinical Team, which includes:
· Educational Psychologists
· Assistant Educational Psychologists
· Speech and Language Therapists
· Occupational Therapists
· National Specialist Advisors
This integrated support ensures that academic progress is matched with emotional safety, wellbeing and developmental growth.
Preparing for Positive Next Steps
The ultimate goal of Keys Alternative Learning is transition, whether that is a successful reintegration into school, progression to post-16 education, or support into semi-independent living or employment pathways.
Enquiries
If you would like to make a referral, please email or call our team. They will be happy to help. We look forward to partnering with you to provide the best possible education and support for your child.
