Information for admissions

At STFC AP, we are dedicated to working with children and their parents to ensure a clear understanding of their placement's purpose. We facilitate the recording and reporting of key information regarding attendance and behaviour, ensuring transparency and collaboration every step of the way.

We work closely with commissioners to request and maintain comprehensive records on the individual needs of each child upon admission. This collaboration continues after admission, allowing us to regularly assess progress on attendance and behaviour, and act on that information appropriately to support children in meeting their educational and welfare outcomes. Detailed reporting structures and forms are in place to ensure this.

Where appropriate, we agree on targets with children, their parents, and commissioners for re-integration into full-time education in a school, always striving for the best possible outcome for each individual.

  • Time-limited placement of 10 weeks, although this can be extended. These 10 weeks can begin at any time based on need but allow time for any individual to complete a planned programme.
  • Attendance 1- 5 days a week or half days if appropriate
  • May include short-term placement to assess needs.
  • Specific short-term support available, e.g., for GCSE or functional skills qualifications.
  • Collaboration with local authorities to offer places to those in need at any time.
  • We avoid open-ended placements with no clear success criteria or exit strategy in place

 

We expect that our services will initially be sought by the current school or local authority and in consultation with parents/carers.

 

If the young person is not in education or is home-schooled, the parent/carer will go through the local authority admissions.

Frequently asked questions about admissions 

Choosing the right educational environment is a significant decision. Here, we address some of the most common questions and concerns parents and students have about applying to STFC AP.

What makes STFC AP a great choice for students, and what kind of students are you hoping to attract?

How does transport and the daily timetable work?
A. The timetable is typically 9:30–2.30  with breaks and lunch. Transport may be arranged by the home school/LA or by families depending on the commission. We can discuss travel training and safe routes as part of transition planning.

What about meals, medical needs, and medication?
A. We can provide lunch or your child can bring a packed lunch. We hold medical plans, administer medication per written consent, and train staff for specific conditions (e.g., EpiPen, diabetes). Allergies and dietary needs are recorded in the induction.

Are there any specific deadlines, entry requirements, or steps in the application process that are really important for visitors to know?

Our placements are typically time-limited to 10 weeks, although this can be extended based on individual need. These 10 weeks can begin at any time, allowing for a planned programme to be completed. Attendance can be 1-5 days a week, or half days if appropriate, and may include short-term placements to assess needs. We also offer specific short-term support for qualifications such as GCSE or functional skills. We collaborate with local authorities to offer places to those in need at any time, avoiding open-ended placements without clear success criteria or an exit strategy. We expect our services to be initially sought by the current school or local authority, in consultation with parents/carers. If the young person is not in education or is home-schooled, parents/carers will go through the local authority admissions process.

Our learners: 

We welcome learners from any background or circumstance who are ready to take positive steps toward their future.

Typically our learners are: 

  • Aged between 11 and 16.
  • Ready for a fresh start.
  • Looking to the future.
  • Someone with interests we can build on to spark new learning.
  • Ambitious and open-minded about what you can achieve.
  • Willing to communicate openly so we can support you when things get tough
  • Ready to try new things and step outside your comfort zone.
  • Curious about the world and how it works.

 

 

With the right support, environment, and encouragement, we believe anyone can thrive and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Ready for a fresh start?

We're committed to helping every student thrive. Learn more about our approach and how we can support your child's journey to success. Your future begins here.