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Welcome pack for Coventry Secondary Partnership

Welcoming the class of 2026 to 2027!

Coventry Alternative Provision (CAP) have produced a starter pack that will support all staff when accessing CAP throughout the forthcoming year.

Please find the Coventry Alternative Provision (CAP) starter pack.

In this welcome pack, you will have access to the following documents:

Coventry Alternative Provision (CAP)

Address: One Friargate
Coventry
CV1 2GN

Telephone: 024 7697 2868 [tel:02476972868]

Service Level Agreement and Coventry school access AY 2026 to 2027

The CAP SLA 2026 to 2027 provides access to:

  • all CAP tiers through a single SLA
  • CAP quality assurance & compliance framework
  • monitoring systems for Attendance, Progress, Safeguarding and Behaviour
  • support with remaining compliant when accessing Alternative Provision and preparation for Ofsted
  • the CAP Multi-Agency Panel for quality assurance of the CAP Graduated Model and oversight of referrals
  • the Education Engagement Team for advice and guidance
  • an Education Engagement Practitioner in school half a day per week
  • network and training events for Behaviour Leads, Pastoral Leads, SENDCos, CAP Coordinators
  • collaborative leadership support
  • continued subscription to ‘When The Adults Change Behaviour Programme’ (up to January 2027)

New developments for 2026 to 2027

See Full Service Level Agreement (SLA). [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/downloads/file/45569/the-cap-secondary-partnership-sla-2026-to-2027]

Tier 2 - Aspiration Pathway (applications can be made at any time)

Open access to:

  • Pathways with Purpose (new for 2026 to 2027)
  • CAPA Lite (new for 2026 to 2027)
  • work-based learning, curriculum and employability courses, qualifications and awards
  • 15 paid for QA placements at Tier 1 and unlimited at Tier 2 as part of the SLA (course fees still apply)
  • course/placement co-ordination and monitoring via dedicated personalised learning and outreach officers
  • monitoring systems for attendance, progress, safeguarding and behaviour

Tier 2: Therapeutic Pathway

Priority access to:

  • Insight and Flourish Placements, i.e. priority over schools who do not have the SLA (course fees still apply)
  • course/placement co-ordination and monitoring via dedicated personalised learning and outreach officers
  • monitoring systems for Attendance, Progress, Safeguarding and Behaviour
  • funded external mentors via the Youth Justice Service (YJS)

Tier 2: Engagement Pathway

Exclusive access to:

  • 12-week Preventative Placements and the associated Headteacher Panel
  • outreach support from an Education Engagement Practitioner for pupils participating in 12-week Preventative Placements during period of the placement
  • Refocus Placements for KS3 pupils at the Coventry AP Academy  (New for 2026 to 2027)
  • Aspire 16 for KS4 pupils at the Coventry AP Academy  (New for 2026 to 2027)
  • Finish 11 for Year 11 pupils at the Coventry AP Academy during the last two terms of year 11 (New for 2026 to 2027)
  • outreach support and training from Coventry AP Academy
  • funded external mentors via the Youth Justice Service (YJS)
  • an Early Help Supporting Families Worker
  • additional advice and guidance from the Education Engagement Team
  • monitoring systems for Attendance, Progress, Safeguarding and Behaviour

Collaborative Leadership Support

Exclusive access to:

  • specialist multi-agency support from the local authority to identify support pathways for students
  • opportunities to meet confidentially on a 1:1 basis with a successful and highly skilled educational leader who understands the context and challenges in Coventry. This aims to support headteachers to develop and crystallise their decision-making approaches when dealing with complex behaviour management issues

Behaviour and Belonging Training Pathway

Continued access to ‘When The Adults Change Behaviour Programme’, which includes

  • access to WTAC Behaviour Change Course
  • access to WTAC Behaviour for Leaders Course
  • access to WTAC Parent Coach Course
  • invitations to attend virtual INSETs and virtual training with the WTAC team
  • access to a video library that allows you to engage in training at any time

Tier 2 - Aspiration Pathway (Vocational, Core curriculum, Employability skills and Personal Development)

Schools can benefit from a diverse range of over 220 courses available through the CAP Directory as part of our Award, Attainment and Personal development Offer. Coventry Alternative Provision collaborates with more than 90 Procured Training Providers, delivering an array of courses across key categories: Vocational Learning, Practical Skill Development, Personal Development, Curriculum Support, and Employability.

The Aspirations Pathway provides schools with access to programmes designed to assist young people through various practical, supportive, and character-building initiatives. These programmes are carefully crafted to align with a broad and balanced curriculum, aiming to facilitate the attainment of accreditations where possible.

These courses should be viewed as a proactive approach to address the support needs that students may have.

Referral considerations

School considerations when making an application on behalf of a student:

  • does the student need a bespoke curriculum to meet their learning needs?
  • does the curriculum offer meet the students interests, passions and aspirations?
  • how will the course / vocational qualification enhance the students educational journey?
  • would an application to Tier 1 provide the right support, at the right time, in the right place?

The duration of these courses may range from half a term to a full academic year, with provisions for progression into a second year as necessary. Coventry Alternative Provision accepts applications for these programmes year-round, without any restrictions on submission timing. Schools are encouraged to finalise a Commissioning Agreement as part of the application process to evidence why the programme is considered the most suitable for the student.

Submit a CAP multi-agency application [https://myaccount.coventry.gov.uk/service/CAP_referral_form_tiers_1___3]

CAP referral pathway

  1. CAP Multi-Agency application form completed via CAP Website
  2. application pack received by CAP team and reviewed
  3. application pack sent to the requested Training Provider via Datalocker
  4. School to contact Training Provider upon submission to arrange the interview
  5. interview held and Training Provider submit an application response, which is received by CAP
  6. application response processed and sent to school to confirm start date
  7. CAP process on systems and set up training record

CAP student risk assessment

Coventry Alternative Provision provide a template Risk Assessment for schools to use if required. Download and print the CAP student risk assessment. [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/downloads/download/8234/cap-risk-assessment-2526]

If schools continue to use their own risk assessments they must be clear, detailed and relevant with updated information upon the point of referral.

We will not accept any risk assessments that have been completed longer than 3 months prior to the point of referral.

Coventry Alternative Provision (CAP)

Address: One Friargate
Coventry
CV1 2GN

Telephone: 024 7697 2868 [tel:02476972868]

Tier 2 - Aspiration Pathway (14 to 16 Pathways With Purpose)

Next Steps and Post-16 Transition Pathways Framework 

The framework outlines the broad spectrum of educational, vocational, and training opportunities available to students in Year 10/11 accessing CAP, providing structured guidance to help them explore their interests, understand each pathway, and make well-informed, confident decisions about their future learning and career direction.

It is designed not only to inform choices but also to actively prepare students for their Post-16 transition, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to successfully move into further education, training, or employment.

By identifying potential barriers early and offering targeted interventions, the framework plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of students becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), ensuring that every young person remains engaged and supported throughout this critical stage of their development.

14 to 16 Pathways with Purpose 

Coventry Alternative Provision is pleased to introduce our 14 to 16 Pathways with Purpose Programmes, delivered in partnership with a range of specialist training providers and Coventry College.

These programmes are specifically designed to support Year 10/11 students who are at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). The aim is to re-engage students in learning, promote emotional well-being, and guide them towards a positive Post-16 destination.

Please see training providers offering these courses [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/directory/134/coventry-alternative-provision-26-27/category/2999].

Programme offer (up to 2 days per week):

  • Vocational Opportunities
  • Academic Assistance
  • Behavioural Interventions
  • Emotional and Social Support
  • Mentoring
  • Personalised Support
  • Careers Advice and Guidance for Post-16 Pathways
  • Early College Experience and Transition

Referral considerations:

When considering a referral, schools should reflect on the following:

  • does the student require a bespoke curriculum to meet their individual learning needs?
  • does the proposed curriculum align with the student’s interests, passions, and aspirations?
  • how will the course or vocational qualification enhance the student’s educational journey, particularly in relation to Post-16 pathways?
  • will the 14 to 16 Pathways with Purpose provide the right support, at the right time, in the right setting?

Programmes may run from half a term to a full academic year. Applications are accepted year-round, with no restrictions on submission timing. Schools are encouraged to complete a Commissioning Agreement to evidence the suitability of the programme for the student.

Year 11 Post 16 Pathway support 

Coventry Alternative Provision and its training providers offer a powerful lifeline to Year 11 students who are accessing alternative provision, ensuring they are not only supported academically but also inspired to believe in their future. The mission is clear: to prevent young people from becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) and to guide them confidently into meaningful Post-16 destinations. This is achieved through a personalised and holistic approaches that wrap around each student, recognising their unique potential and nurturing it every step of the way.

Students can receive tailored academic support, including focused on English and Maths, access to functional skills qualifications, and opportunities to pursue vocational pathways in areas such as construction, hospitality, hair and beauty, and motor vehicle maintenance. Learning is delivered in small, nurturing environments where students can rebuild confidence, rediscover motivation, and achieve qualifications that open doors.

Beyond academics, the CAP Team and Training Providers provide robust career guidance, helping students explore their interests, set goals, and take practical steps toward their future. This includes one-to-one career interviews, help with college and apprenticeship applications, CV writing workshops, and real-world work experience placements that ignite ambition and build employability skills.

Emotional wellbeing is at the heart of the support offered. Students are paired with dedicated mentors who offer regular check-ins, encouragement, and a listening ear. Where needed, therapeutic services can be available to help young people navigate personal challenges and develop resilience. The team also works closely with families, ensuring parents and carers are engaged and empowered to support their child’s journey.

As students approach the transition to Post-16, the team is able to orchestrate handovers, arranging visits to colleges and training providers, facilitating introductions, and ensuring that every young person feels prepared and supported. This isn’t just about logistics — it’s about building belief. Students leave alternative provision not only with qualifications, but with a renewed sense of purpose, self-worth, and the confidence to thrive in the next chapter of their lives.

Tier 2 - Aspiration Pathway (CAPA Aspire 16 Programme)

New for AY 2026 to 2027: 

Tier 2 Aspiration Pathway - Aspire 16 (KS4)

Coventry Academy presents an Aspirational pathway called Aspire 16, aimed at assisting students in identifying their aspirational goals and overcoming barriers hindering their POST 16 pathway progression. This programme combines vocational awards and core curriculum to equip students for a successful POST 16 transition.

Referral considerations 

  • has the school reviewed and adapted the students curriculum/timetable? 
  • other strategies and interventions implemented by school and the impact/outcomes of these?
  • involvement of other professionals and the impact/outcomes of these?
  • exploration and identification of contributing factors to the student needs?
  • student voice and perception of their own strengths and what they would like support with?
  • partnership work with parents and the impact/outcomes of this work?
  • engaged with EHAC, completed an Early Help Assessment and Plan, recorded on EHM? (Essential)
  • gained parental consent for the referral to the CAP Multi-Agency Panel? (Discussion outcomes will impact on decision making)

Referral pathway 

  1. Multi-Agency application form completed via CAP website.
  2. CAP review and authorisation panel for quality assurance approval.
  3. Panel outcome prepared for Multi-Agency panel.
  4. Discussed at Multi-Agency panel.
  5. Outcome shared with referring school.
  6. Coventry Academy initiates onboarding.
Programme Curriculum Intent Pupil needs Pupil Outcomes Local progression routes

Aspire 16 (Medium- Term dual registered intervention Tier 2) 

Students attend the programme two days per week while attending their home school three days a week.

• To assess the learning needs of the individual pupil and form a learning plan to enable them to re-engage with their secondary education at their home school and at CAPA

• Address learning needs and equip with strategies so that pupils can effectively access education.

• To develop employability skills and a career plan for each pupil, in order to ensure that their future transition to post-16 is effective and relevant for the individual

• To reengage pupils with their learning by providing high quality curriculum delivery, an engaging curriculum and personal development opportunities

• To allow pupils to access a wider vocational curriculum to compliment their core curriculum, through a blended approach and dual registration

 For year KS4 students who require a medium-term intervention in order to complete and maximise their secondary education. Pupils referred to this programme will be aiming for a level 1 education, and a vocational post-16 offer.

• NOCN Level 1 Certificate in Skills for Employment, Training and Personal Development for one year

• NOCN Level 1 Diploma in Skills for Employment, Training and Personal Development for 2 years
  • Coventry Secondary Partnership schools
  • Level 2 Post 16
  • Coventry Alternative Provision framework at Tier 2
  • CAPA Lite programme Tier 2

 

Tier 2 - Therapeutic Pathway (Insight and Flourish)

Coventry Alternative Provision has established the therapeutic pathway programmes to provide specialised assistance to young people in need of focused support. This programme has been further categorised into 2 distinct offers; 'Insight' and 'Flourish' 

Insight

Coventry Alternative Provision provides specialised Social Development courses for 6 to 12 weeks, 1 day per week, designed to address specific areas of concern impacting student development. The team actively seeks new providers offering high-quality courses that address and raise awareness of prevailing social trends. Schools have the opportunity to apply for these courses based on student need.

Flourish

Coventry Alternative Provision has developed the Flourish Programmes, which utilise therapeutic methods to evaluate students facing learning barriers that impede their educational access and affect their attendance.

These programmes are 12 weeks (2 days per week) and require a level of commitment from schools to provide a caseworker and attend regular review meetings. All Flourish programmes must be applied for using the CAP Referral linked below, these will all go to the Panel.

Submit a CAP multi-agency application

Referral considerations

Questions the CAP Review & Authorisation Panel will seek clarity on:

  • School has a designated case-worker (significant adult) assigned to the student?
  • School commitment to attend review meetings?
  • School reviewed and adapted the student curriculum / timetable? 
  • if other key agencies have previously been involved, have the recommended strategies been implemented and what are the impact/outcomes of these?
  • how will the school create capacity to implement any suggested strategies from the programme?
  • (If appropriate) How does provision meet the EHCP requirements?
  • started an Early Help offer to family? Gained consent from parents and recorded on EHM?

(Discussion outcomes will impact on decision making).

Referral pathway

  1. Multi Agency Application Form completed via CAP Website- Insight processed the same as awards, attainment and personal development courses 
  2. CAP Review and Authorisation Panel
  3. Panel outcome document shared with referring school.
  4. If Approved the student interview can be scheduled by Training Provider.
  5. If not Approved CAP Support school by exploring alternatives.
  6. Application response processed and sent to School to confirm start date.

Tier 2 - Engagement Pathway (CAPA Refocus and Finish 11 programme)

Tier 2 - Engagement Pathway - Refocus (KS3 only)

Coventry Academy presents a time-limited intervention programme called Refocus, aimed at assisting students in identifying their needs and overcoming barriers hindering their academic success. This programme combines curriculum access with targeted interventions to equip students for a successful return to school upon its completion.

Referral considerations 

  • has the school reviewed and adapted the students curriculum/timetable? (Tier 2?)
  • other strategies and interventions implemented by school and the impact/outcomes of these?
  • involvement of other professionals and the impact/outcomes of these?
  • exploration and identification of contributing factors to the student needs?
  • student voice and perception of their own strengths and what they would like support with?
  • partnership work with parents and the impact/outcomes of this work?
  • engaged with EHAC, completed an Early Help Assessment and Plan, recorded on EHM? (Essential)
  • gained parental consent for the referral to the CAP Multi-Agency Panel? (Discussion outcomes will impact on decision making)

Referral pathway 

  1. Multi-Agency application form completed via CAP website.
  2. CAP review and authorisation panel for quality assurance approval.
  3. Panel outcome prepared for Multi-Agency panel.
  4. Discussed at Multi-Agency panel.
  5. Outcome shared with referring school.
  6. Coventry Academy initiates onboarding.

Additional information - Refocus

  • during the initial 7 weeks, the student will attend Coventry Academy for four days weekly, with attendance at their home school scheduled for Mondays
  • transitioning back to their home school occurs during the final 3 weeks, known as the "Back to School Phase."
  • upon returning to their home school, the anticipated course of action involves the implementation of the designated plan and strategies by the school
  • training will be provided for a designated member of the school staff to offer support to the student upon their return to the home school setting

Programme

Curriculum Intent

Pupil needs

Pupil Outcomes (Implementation)

Local progression routes

Refocus (10 Week Tier 2 Time Limited)- Intervention Placement years 7-9

 

Students attend the programme four days per week while maintaining a link with their home school one day a week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  • To assess the learning and Pastoral needs of the individual pupil and form a learning plan to enable them to re-engage and address the barriers preventing them from thriving in education
  • Start to address learning and Pastoral needs and equip with strategies so that pupils can effectively access education in their home school.
  • To reengage pupils with their learning by providing high quality curriculum delivery, an engaging curriculum and personal development opportunities
  • An SEMH Curriculum and nurturing environment that includes teaching strategies for managing emotions, building self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships
  • To support the pupil in transitioning back into their home school through a graduated transition and school visits by CAPA staff

For students requiring short-term intervention, showing the early signs of disaffection with mainstream secondary education 

 

 

KS3 Pupils

  • National Curriculum
  • Individualised interventions designed to address gaps in learning, reading age and SEMH needs.
  • Access to Peripatetic Music
  • Experiential Catering, Construction and Hairdressing tasters

 
  • Coventry Secondary Partnership schools
  • Coventry Alternative Provision Framework at Tier 1 and 2
  • CAPA Lite programme Tier 2

 

New for AY 2026 to 2027

Tier 2 - Engagement Pathway - Finish 11

Coventry Academy presents an Engagement pathway called Finish 11, aimed at assisting students in identifying their aspirational goals and overcoming barriers hindering their POST 16 pathway progression. This programme combines vocational awards and core curriculum to equip students for a successful POST 16 transition.

Referral considerations 

  • has the school reviewed and adapted the students curriculum/timetable? 
  • other strategies and interventions implemented by school and the impact/outcomes of these?
  • involvement of other professionals and the impact/outcomes of these?
  • exploration and identification of contributing factors to the student needs?
  • student voice and perception of their own strengths and what they would like support with?
  • partnership work with parents and the impact/outcomes of this work?
  • engaged with EHAC, completed an Early Help Assessment and Plan, recorded on EHM? (Essential)
  • gained parental consent for the referral to the CAP Multi-Agency Panel? (Discussion outcomes will impact on decision making)

Referral pathway 

  1. Multi-Agency application form completed via CAP website.
  2. CAP review and authorisation panel for quality assurance approval.
  3. Panel outcome prepared for Multi-Agency panel.
  4. Discussed at Multi-Agency panel.
  5. Outcome shared with referring school.
  6. Coventry Academy initiates onboarding.

Finish 11

(Tier 3)- Transitional placement

Students remain on the roll of their home school but attend the programme 4 days a week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  • To address learning needs and equip with strategies so that pupils can effectively access their next educational setting
  • To reengage pupils with their learning by providing high quality curriculum delivery, an engaging, relevant curriculum and personal development opportunities
  • A nurturing environment that includes teaching strategies for managing emotions, building self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships
  • To ensure that pupils complete and obtain a level 1-2 education
  • To support an effective transition to pupils next education setting, which could include a 6-week graduated transition phase and supported interviews
  • To provide a comprehensive assessment of pupil needs and suggested strategies to the next educational setting

An alternative to permanent exclusion during the last two terms of year 11. The programme aims to ensure that pupils can attain qualifications that enable them to access their post 16 destination
  • English, Maths, and Science to GCSE level ¬*^
  • Physical Education, PSHE/RE and Food (Life skill) with certification via AQA awards
  • TBC

Post- 16 Transition

  • Coventry Secondary Partnership schools¬
  • Coventry City College*
  • North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College^
  • Local Training providers

Tier 2 - Engagement Pathway (12 week preventative placement)

Coventry Alternative Provision introduces the 12-week preventative placement providing time-limited support to our young people. 

Submit a CAP multi-agency application

12-week preventative placement 

The 12-week preventative placement  process for Coventry secondary schools is designed to ensure that pupils who require personalised interventions and focused support to overcome barriers, improve engagement and build resilience are offered a time limited placement at a new school. It is not an alternative to permanent exclusion. It is hoped the outcome of a 12-week preventative placement results in the pupil successfully successfully returning to their home school.

Referral considerations 

  • is the referral linked to a one-off incident?
  • is the referral being made for persistent disruptive behaviour?
  • will the student be able to meet the same expectations in a different school? Rationale?
  • will the student genuinely benefit from a fresh start?
  • started an Early Help offer to family? Gained consent from parents and recorded on EHM?
  • gained parental consent for the referral to the CAP Multi-Agency Panel? (Discussion outcomes will impact on decision making)

Referral pathway 

  1. Multi-Agency application form completed via CAP website.
  2. CAP Review and authorisation panel for Quality Assurance approval.
  3. If approved, school allocated at 12-week preventative placement Headteacher Panel.

Tier 2 Referral deadlines and panel dates - AY 2026 to 2027

Application Deadline Agenda Items 12-week Preventative Placement  Panel Flourish start date KS3 Refocus start date Aspire 16 start date Finish 11 start date
Wednesday
16 September 		 Flourish QA checks and approval (July 2026)
12-week Preventative Placement QA checks

KS3 Refocus QA checks and approval
KS4 Aspire 16 (Yr 11 only) QA checks and approval		 Tuesday 29 September Monday 14 September  - - -
Wednesday
7 October 		 12-week Preventative Placement QA checks

 		 Tuesday 20 October - Cohort 1 (10 weeks)

Monday 5 October to
 Friday 18 December		 Year 11 pupils 
Monday 5 October		 -
Wednesday
11 November 		 12-week Preventative Placement QA checks

 		 Tuesday 24 November - - - -
Wednesday
2 December 		 Flourish QA checks and approval
12-week Preventative Placement QA checks

KS3 Refocus QA checks and approval
KS4 Aspire 16 (Yr 10 only) QA checks and approval
Finish 11 QA checks and approval		 Tuesday 15 December

 		 - - - -
Wednesday
13 January 		 12-week Preventative Placement QA checks

 		 Tuesday 26 January Monday 11 January  Cohort 2 (10 weeks)

Monday 11 January to
Thursday 25 March		 Yr 10 pupils 
Monday 11 January		 Yr 11 pupils 
Monday 11 January
Wednesday
3 February		 12-week Preventative Placement QA checks

 		 Tuesday 23 February  - - - -
Wednesday
10 March		 Flourish QA checks and approval
12-week Preventative Placement QA checks

KS3 Refocus QA checks and approval		 Tuesday 23 March - - - -
Wednesday
14 April

 

 

12-week Preventative Placement QA checks


 

 Tuesday 27 April Monday 26 April  Cohort 3 (10 weeks)
Monday 26 April to
Friday 9 July		 - -
Wednesday
19 May

 

12-week Preventative Placement QA checks
 

 Tuesday 8 June - - - -
Wednesday
30 June

12-week Preventative Placement QA checks

Flourish approval (for September 2027 start)

 Tuesday 13 July  - - - -
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