Provider Access Policy Statement

This policy statement sets out our School’s arrangements for managing the access of providers to pupils/students at the school for the purpose of giving them information about the provider’s education or training offer. This complies with the school’s legal obligations under Section 42B of the Education Act 1997.

Student entitlement

All students in Years 8 - 13 are entitled to:

• Find out about technical education qualifications and apprenticeship opportunities,
• Talk about activities and experiences they do outside of school as part of a careers programme which provides information on the full range of education and training options available at each transition point;
• Hear from a range of local providers about the opportunities they offer, including technical education and apprenticeships – through options events, assemblies, group discussions and taster events;
• Understand how to make applications for the full range of academic and technical courses.

Granting and refusing access

St Mary’s will grant access requests that meet the following criteria:

• The provider has detailed knowledge of the nature of the SEND of St Mary’s students
• The provider can offer appropriate pathways for the students, both academically and personal development

St Mary’s will refuse any access request that:

• The school believes is not in the best interests of the students
• This list is not exhaustive and each access request will be considered on a case by case basis.

Safeguarding

Our safeguarding/child protection policy outlines the school’s procedure for checking the identity and suitability of visitors. Education and training providers will be expected to adhere to this policy.

Premises and facilities

Once the provider has been approved, the school will work with them to identify the best method for providing access to the students. The school will make relevant rooms available for discussions between the provider and students, as appropriate to the activity. This will all be discussed and agreed in advance of the visit with the Careers Lead. Technical aids e.g. interactive whiteboards can be supplied if requested. Relevant materials can be left for students and parents/carers.

A provider wishing to request access should contact Mr S Weakley, Careers Leader, Telephone: 01424 730740 - Email: sweakley@stmarysbexhill.org

Providers are welcome to attend parents’ evenings and pre-arranged sessions during the school day to speak to pupils/students, parents/carers. We are also able to transport groups of pupils to visit providers’ premises.