Alternative Provision Specialist Taskforce

Alternative Provision Specialist Taskforce (APST)

Supporting Young People to Thrive — In and Beyond Education

LEAP has been asked by the Department for Education to participate in the Alternative Provision Specialist Taskforce (APST) programme, which aims to provide intensive multi-agency support to vulnerable children and young people in Alternative Provision (AP) most at risk of disengaging with education, being criminally exploited by gangs and becoming involved in county lines and knife crime.

It brings together specialist professionals from across services — education, health, social care, and youth justice — to help students overcome barriers and build brighter futures.

Our Mission

To reduce youth vulnerability and improve outcomes for students in Alternative Provision by addressing the complex needs that affect learning, wellbeing, and life chances.

What We Do

The APST offers joined-up, on-site support tailored to each young person’s needs, including:

• ✅ Mental health and wellbeing support

• ✅ Behavioural and emotional regulation strategies

• ✅ Family and social support interventions

• ✅ Early intervention to prevent exclusion or criminal exploitation

Who We Are

Each Taskforce is made up of multi-disciplinary professionals, such as:

• Social workers and counsellors

• Family support workers

• Youth workers

• Mental health practitioners

• Speech & Language Therapists

We work directly within LEAP — not remotely — ensuring help is accessible, immediate, and consistent.

Our Impact - Since its launch, APSTs have helped: 

• Reduce school exclusions

• Improve attendance and engagement

• Support reintegration into mainstream education

• Lower the risk of involvement in crime or exploitation

Contact information

Email: denise.foster@londoneastap.org.uk   or jordan.archer@londoneastap.org.uk

“APST gives young people the chance to be heard, supported, and inspired to reach their potential.”