14-16 Provision: A Non-Traditional Path to Education

What is 14-16 Provision?

14-16 provision offers an alternative educational pathway for young people aged 14-16 who may not thrive in a traditional school setting. This provision, often offered by colleges, provides a flexible and supportive learning environment.

How Does 14-16 Provision Work?

1. College Eligibility: Not all colleges offer 14-16 provision. To determine if a local college provides this option, it's essential to contact them directly.

2. College Approval: Colleges must obtain approval from the Department for Education (DfE) to offer 14-16 provision. This involves a rigorous process, including discussions with local authorities and the submission of a readiness-to-open checklist.

3. Funding: Once approved, colleges receive funding from the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) to support the education of 14-16-year-old students.

4. Quality Standards: Colleges must maintain high standards of education, as evidenced by an 'Outstanding' or 'Good' Ofsted rating.

5. Dedicated Space: Colleges must provide a designated space for 14-16 students, ensuring a conducive learning environment.

6. Qualified Support: A qualified individual must be responsible for overseeing the 14-16 provision and supporting students' needs.

7. Admission Criteria and Fees: Colleges must publish clear admission criteria and are prohibited from charging fees.

8. Curriculum: While not bound by the National Curriculum, colleges must offer a broad and balanced education, with English, Maths, and Science as core subjects.

9. Home-Educated Students: Colleges can enrol home-educated students on part-time courses but not full-time courses. Full-time enrolment transfers the student's educational responsibility to the college.

   
   
   
   

Why Choose 14-16 Provision?

14-16 provision can be beneficial for students who:

• Require a more flexible learning environment

• Have specific learning needs or difficulties

• Seek a different educational approach

• Require additional support or guidance

By offering a supportive and tailored approach, 14-16 provision empowers young people to reach their full potential.

Further Information

For more detailed information, please refer to the following resources:

• Full-time enrolment of 14 to 16-year-olds in further education and sixth-form colleges: 2024 to 2025 academic year

• Funding Regulations

• The Education Act 1996

• Further and Higher Education Act 1992

• The Education (Secondary Education in Further Education Institutions) Regulations 1999

• ESFA: funding rules, rates and formula