4,324 providers on the directory
Find the right alternative or specialist education.
AP Directory helps families, schools and professionals discover alternative provision and specialist education options for children and young people who may need something different from mainstream education.
Listings include alternative provision providers, special schools, independent specialist settings, online provision, tutoring and other specialist education services. Access and referral routes vary by provider.
The live catalogue currently lists 4,324 providers across towns, cities and counties in the UK, including online provision.
Explore the directory
4,324 providers across the UK
Browse source-backed locations, zoom into local clusters, then filter by provision type, age stage, need, delivery, subject or qualification.
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Only listings with an authoritative coordinate are pinned. Online and address-only listings remain visible in search.
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- Alternative Provision in Birmingham
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- Alternative Provision in Liverpool
- Alternative Provision in Worcester
How it works for schools
Create an anonymous case for a learner, get explainable matches against your requirements, shortlist and compare providers, then contact providers directly — all without storing a child's full name.
Learn moreHow it works for parents
Describe your situation in plain language — no sector jargon required — and we'll translate it into the right search filters.
Learn moreList your provision
Reach schools and families actively searching for provision like yours. Claim your listing or add your provision for free.
Founded by a former teacher
“I've seen firsthand the difference the right environment can make. AP Directory exists to help families see what is actually out there.”
Laura Crawford, secondary teacher turned founder — read our story
Guides & resources
All resourcesParent support
How are Alternative Provision placements arranged? Who can apply?
Finding a provider in a directory is not the same as being able to apply to it. Here is how places in alternative provision are usually arranged, and how to read the access information on AP Directory.
Parent support
Suspension, permanent exclusion and sixth-day provision explained
What happens to your child's education on the sixth school day of a suspension or permanent exclusion, and who is responsible for arranging it. Based on GOV.UK and DfE statutory guidance.
Parent support
What is a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU)?
A Pupil Referral Unit is one type of alternative provision. Here is what that means, why you usually can't simply book a place, and what to ask.
Parent support
Questions to ask an alternative provision provider
A practical checklist of questions to ask before a child starts at an alternative provision provider, for parents and professionals.