Parents invited to help shape alternative education

West Northamptonshire Council launched its final consultation on alternative education

Parents, carers and guardians have been invited to help shape a future approach to alternative education.

West Northamptonshire Council invited people to have their final say on alternative education in the county.

This type of educational provision operates outside the formal school system.

Kathryn Shaw, Reform UK councillor and cabinet member for children, families and education, said: "Every child deserves access to good quality education that supports their individual needs and for many, alternative provision plays a vital role in this."

The council said these settings often support children who need a different approach to learning and are currently not subject to the same regulations as registered schools.

It added that a consultation closed in July receiving feedback to inform the development of a new framework to ensure alternative education settings are safe, inclusive and responsive.

Shaw said: "This is an important piece of work and one that is crucial we get right."

Parents, carers and guardians were invited to four sessions by the council.

• Daventry Library in Daventry on the 8 September from 10:30 BST until 12:30

• The Guildhall in Northampton on 11 September from 13:00 until 15:00

• Towcester Hub in Towester on 16 September from 16:00 until 18:00

• A virtual meeting will be held on 18 September from 17:00 until 19:00

Shaw added: "We hope by putting on these additional engagement sessions, will encourage further feedback and conversation with parents, carers and guardians who child or children use alternative education."

Once finalised, the new framework was expected to launch in 2026.