What is a Section 19 Placement?

The Wild Mane Project offers challenge badges and certificates to children, teens, and young adults in Alternative Provision or EOTAS in Tameside, Stockport, and Manchester.

Not all children cope in a classroom, and Section 19 exists to protect those who cannot attend school for a variety of reasons.

Every child and young person deserves an education, but what that education looks like should depend on the individual receiving it. For some, a mainstream classroom works well. For others, anxiety, autism, medical needs, mental health difficulties, or other barriers can make attending school incredibly difficult.

A Section 19 placement recognises that one size does not fit all. It exists to ensure that children and young people who cannot access mainstream education still receive the support, opportunities, and education they are entitled to.

What Does Section 19 Mean?

Section 19 refers to Section 19 of the Education Act 1996. It places a duty on local authorities to arrange suitable education for children of compulsory school age who cannot attend school because of illness, exclusion, or any other reason that prevents them from accessing a suitable education.

In simple terms, if a child cannot attend school, there is still a legal duty to make sure they receive an education.

That education should be suitable for the child's age, ability, aptitude, and any special educational needs they may have.

When Might a Section 19 Placement Be Used?

A Section 19 placement may be considered when a child is unable to attend school for an extended period of time.

This could be because of medical needs, significant anxiety, Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA), mental health difficulties, autism-related barriers, exclusion, or other circumstances that make school inaccessible.

Every situation is different, and the support provided should reflect the individual needs of the child or young person.

What Does Suitable Education Look Like?

There is no single answer.

For some children, suitable education may involve tutoring. For others, it may involve a specialist setting, alternative provision, outdoor learning, or a combination of approaches.

The purpose of a Section 19 placement is not simply to occupy a child's time. It is to provide meaningful education in a way that they can access.

How Can Alternative Provision Help?

Alternative provision can offer a different environment for children who are struggling in mainstream education.

Smaller groups, practical activities, outdoor learning, and individualised support can help children rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning, and prepare for future education.

The focus should always be on meeting the needs of the child rather than expecting the child to fit a system that is not currently working for them.

The Wild Mane Project

At The Wild Mane Project, we support children and young people who are struggling to access education through Therapeutic Approaches delivered through Equine-Assisted Learning and Wilderness Living Skills.

We work alongside schools, local authorities, and families across Tameside, Stockport, Manchester, and the wider Greater Manchester area to provide meaningful opportunities for children who need a different approach.

If you would like to discuss a potential Section 19 placement, please get in touch.