EOTAS (Education Otherwise Than at School) is a legal provision in the UK allowing specific children with special needs to be educated in an alternative setting away from the school environment. When a child reaches a point where they cannot be taught within a school setting, for whatever reason, EOTAS can be a good alternative.
Benefits of EOTAS could include:
- An education specifically tailored to a child’s needs
- An opportunity for increased emotional regulation
- An exclusion of elements of school culture that have been exacerbating the student’s SEND
- Timetabling flexibility – rules and targets can be adjusted daily according to the needs of the student
- Specialised support from other agencies can be factored in, such as occupational therapy
Aaron
Aaron is 16. Due to multiple diagnosis, including autism, ADHD, anxiety, hypertrophy and hyperflexibility impacting on some of his muscles and joints, it has been a challenging journey.
After being granted an EHCP, following his schooling at both a mainstream and then a specialist school, it was becoming increasingly apparent that Aaron was unable to manage in any type of school environment. His attendance record was poor; being around his peers, and the enormity of the culture at school exacerbated his anxiety, leaving him stressed and unable to focus which made learning impossible.
Aaron’s parents requested an EOTAS plan, which was initially refused. On their second attempt, an EOTAS plan was issued.
Having now been on the package for two years, the outlook is very different for Aaron.
Location and Timetable
Lessons are taught by SENsational Specialist Tutor, Liz, taking place at a local community centre. Aaron has been granted 10 hours per week; this occurs on three mornings from 10am on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Aaron had been working towards:
- Functional Skills English Level 2
- Functional Skills Maths Level 2
Having recently passed both exams, Aaron is now pursuing his interest in taking photographs, following an online photography course with Liz during his sessions. This aligns with his interests, as he possesses a strong digital mindset and owns his own camera.
In addition, Liz is looking to embark Aaron on a level 3 history course from Oxford College which will run as an online, distance learning course.
Below is a typical timetable illustrating Aaron’s lessons leading up to his maths and English level 2 exams:
Specific Focus
The recent course that Aaron has begun allows him to explore the world of photography, whilst also incorporating his interest and skills in the digital world. For him, this is a highlight, as not only does it offer a route to a qualification with possible post-16 options, it also gives him the opportunity to enjoy his passion.
Successes
- Aaron’s EOTAS environment has led to a drastic decrease in his anxiety.
- He is now much more focused and able to engage in a proper uninterrupted learning routine.
- He feels positive about attending his EOTAS setting
- His sensory needs are now complimented by his environment.
- Aaron is now achieving close to 100% attendance.
- His new experience of a calmer atmosphere is palpable; without the peer group pressure and sensory overload, Aaron can now embrace the reality of a real education.
Progress
Since beginning his EOTAS journey, Liz has noted progress in the following areas:
- There has been academic progress. Aaron has now achieved two qualifications (Level 2 English and Maths Functional Skills) and is working towards a photography exam. He will soon be studying for a history assessment, leading to another qualification.
- Aaron can now interact more successfully with his teacher, engaging and listening to ideas and instructions and responding appropriately.
- He is more motivated to work consistently and with more effort.
- Aaron is communicating more confidently and can now socialise with other staff in the building.
- He is now cycling to the centre independently, no longer needing the security of his mum taking him in.
Thoughts for the immediate future and further education
Aaron’s family are really happy with the outcome of his EOTAS, and would like him to remain on the package for as long as possible. Looking ahead to post-16 options, it is hoped that he will apply to a highly recommended SEND college based in Manchester that has recently come to their attention.
Reviewing of the EOTAS Package
Reviews of the plan currently take place once per year. It is not anticipated that this will change for the foreseeable future.
Conclusion
The improvements in Aaron’s well-being, effort and attainment have been evident on many levels. He is in a better place emotionally, socially, environmentally and academically, now able to focus more consistently and reach targets that are set for him.
Aaron has gathered a new strength from his EOTAS experience. This has put him in a more stable position to think about future educational options, and what may lie ahead for him as a young adult.
