top of page

Health and Safety in Alternative Provision

  • oliver-dunn
  • Jun 16
  • 3 min read

Updated: Oct 5


ree

The Importance of Health and Safety in Quality Alternative Provision (AP)


Delivering high-quality AP involves more than strong teaching and personalised learning support. It also requires a firm, proactive commitment to health and safety.


AP settings often work with young people who are particularly vulnerable or have complex needs, which makes effective risk management critical. A safe, well-organised environment not only protects pupils and staff but also builds essential confidence among parents, carers, commissioners, and partner schools.



Why Health and Safety Matters in AP


Unlike mainstream education, AP is often delivered in a variety of settings—off-site venues, outdoor learning spaces, or specialist vocational workshops—each carrying unique risks. Without robust health and safety systems, there is a greater chance of accidents, safeguarding failures, or non-compliance with statutory duties. A strong culture of safety enables learners to re-engage with education, develop confidence, and make progress.


A proactive approach to health and safety ensures compliance with legal duties and protects learners and staff. For AP providers committed to quality; creating safe, supportive environments is non-negotiable.


Key Health and Safety Considerations for AP Providers


  • Risk Assessments: Comprehensive, regularly reviewed risk assessments must cover the specific activities, environments, and needs of the young people involved.


  • Staff Training: All staff, including temporary and part-time workers, should receive up-to-date training on health and safety policies, safeguarding, behaviour management, and emergency procedures.


  • Safe Environment: Facilities must be fit for purpose, including secure buildings, appropriate equipment, clear emergency exits, and suitable first aid arrangements.


  • Individual Pupil Risk Profiles: Some learners may present additional risks (e.g. medical conditions or behaviour that challenges). These must be understood and planned for on an individual basis.


  • Safeguarding Integration: Health and safety measures must align closely with safeguarding practices, particularly when off-site activities or lone working situations are involved.


  • Monitoring and Review: Regular checks, audits, and incident reviews ensure continuous improvement and legal compliance.


Key Legislation Covering Health and Safety in AP Settings


AP providers are legally required to comply with a range of health and safety laws designed to protect both staff and learners. Key legislation includes:


  • Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: The primary piece of legislation covering all workplaces, requiring employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees and others affected by their work.

  • Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999: Requires risk assessments and proper planning, organisation, control, monitoring, and review of preventive measures.

  • The Children Act 1989 and 2004: Emphasises the welfare of the child as paramount, linking safeguarding directly to safe working environments.

  • The Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014: Sets out specific health and safety and welfare standards that must be met in non-maintained settings.


Links to more information:


The following resources offer practical guidance to help AP providers meet their legal and operational health and safety obligations:










Maintaining high standards of health and safety is not only a legal obligation but central to the success of any AP. Providers who embed strong risk management processes create safe, supportive environments where learners can succeed.


Confidence in your health and safety systems is essential - both for compliance, and for the wellbeing of learners, staff, and your organisation’s reputation. Let Benchmarked help you build that confidence. Contact us to explore tailored support for your provision.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page