What Is an Independent Alternative Provision?
And How Abyss Scuba School Supports Young People Differently
Not every young person thrives in a traditional classroom. Some need a different environment, a different rhythm, or a different way of learning altogether — and that’s where Independent Alternative Provisions (IAPs) come in.
At their simplest, an Independent Alternative Provision is an education setting outside mainstream school that supports young people who may not be accessing, attending, or engaging with traditional education. But in reality, a good IAP is far more than that.
It is a safe, structured, nurturing environment where children and young people build confidence, resilience, social skills, and a sense of identity — often through practical, interest-led activities delivered by consistent, trusted adults.
Who Are Independent Alternative Provisions For?
Most young people referred to an IAP have needs that make mainstream education difficult, such as:
SEN or SEMH needs
Anxiety or trauma responses
School avoidance or emotionally based school avoidance
Sensory needs
Dysregulation in busy or academic settings
Exclusion or risk of exclusion
Low confidence or low self-esteem
An IAP can be a stepping stone, a bridge back into education, or a longer-term alternative pathway, depending on each child’s needs.
At Abyss Scuba School, we work with young people aged 8+, including those with EHCPs, those on waiting lists for assessment, and those currently out of education entirely.
What Makes Abyss Scuba School’s IAP Different?
We are not a classroom — and that’s the point.
Our provision is built around water-based learning, marine environments, and outdoor experiences because we’ve seen first-hand how these spaces help young people:
Feel calmer
Build routines
Regulate emotions
Develop confidence
Connect with peers
Learn through doing
Form trusting relationships with adults
Young people here might:
Snorkel or learn basic scuba skills in our heated on-site pool
Explore the coastline and rock-pool local beaches
Learn ocean science and marine ecology
Take part in beach walks and nature sessions
Practice navigation, water safety and teamwork
Meet marine conservation groups and local projects
Record observations, photos and findings
Develop independence and leadership
Every student has an Individual Education Plan (IEP) focused on:
Emotional regulation
Communication and interaction
Peer relationships
Confidence and resilience
Real-world skills
Next steps toward reintegration or progression
For older students, we offer AQA Unit Awards, PADI-based pathways, and work-related marine learning.
Who Refers to an IAP?
Referrals typically come from:
Local Authorities
Schools & Academies
SENCOs
Virtual Schools
Social Care teams
Parents (private/self-funded)
Other education or health professionals
We have immediate availability for placements and work closely with referring professionals to ensure the right fit, the right plan, and the right support.
A Calm, Nurturing Environment with Consistent Adults
Young people accessing our IAP benefit from:
✔ Small group ratios (typically 1:4)
✔ Predictable routines and clear structure
✔ Consistent adults who build trust over time
✔ Sensory-aware practice
✔ Space to withdraw, reset, or regulate
✔ Supported transitions in and out of activities
✔ Celebrated successes, not punishments for struggles
Our team includes professionals with experience in:
ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support)
Trauma-informed practice
SEN & SEMH support
Behaviour support
Marine education & youth outdoor learning
PADI dive instruction
What Outcomes Do We Focus On?
Every young person has unique goals, but common outcomes include:
Improved attendance
Reduced anxiety around learning environments
Increased emotional regulation
Better communication & peer interaction
Sense of identity and self-worth
Re-engagement with education
Progress toward EHCP outcomes
Preparation for post-16 pathways
Marine-related interests or career aspirations
Some students reintegrate into school.
Some transition into specialist settings.
Some continue with us as a longer-term provision.
The success is not in forcing one pathway — it’s in supporting the right pathway for the child.
Why Water Works
Water-based activities are powerful for young people with SEN/SEMH needs because they naturally encourage:
Deep, regulated breathing
Focus and presence
Sensory feedback
Reduced performance anxiety
Low-impact physical activity
Achievement through small steps
Trust between young person and instructor
Many families tell us their child is “calmest near water” — we simply build on that.
Want to Learn More?
If you are a parent, SENCO, Virtual School, or LA professional looking for a safe, structured and engaging IAP for a young person aged 8+, we’d love to speak with you.
📞 Contact us to discuss placements, visit the centre, or make a referral.
📍 Abyss Scuba School, Littlehampton Marina
🌊 Helping young people build confidence — one breath at a time.
