LeadersSafeguardingCPDGovernorHubKeyGPT
Training Hub

Alternative provision: demonstrating pupil progress

As progress 8 for pupil referral units (PRUs) and alternative provision (AP) academies isn't included in performance tables, read advice on how to demonstrate that your pupils are making good progress.

Last reviewed on 11 December 2025
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 12261
Contents
  1. Progress 8 for AP isn't included in performance tables
  2. Assess each pupil against their personalised plan 
  3. Develop a comprehensive baseline assessment
  4. Make use of external moderation 
  5. Benchmark your assessment against a mainstream school
  6. Remember, progress isn't just academic
  7. Analyse your data and monitor trends

Progress 8 for AP isn't included in performance tables

Progress 8 data isn't routinely published for state-funded alternative provision (AP) or pupil referral units (PRUs).

While a progress 8 score is calculated, this is only so it can be used in local authority (LA), regional and national data. 

The DfE told us this.

PRUs and AP academies are still expected to demonstrate that all pupils are making good progress, and that their needs are being fully met.

Assess each pupil against their personalised plan 

Aim to rigorously assess every pupil regularly (e.g. once a term) against their plan. 

For children with special educational needs (SEN), this plan may be their education, health and care (EHC) plan or personal support plan (PSP). 

Improvement and attainment objectives Timeframes (e.g. to achieve objectives and reintegration) Arrangements for assessment and monitoring progress A baseline of the current position against which to measure progress Links to