For parents, carers and young people
Progress, Attendance and Next Steps in One Place
If your child has been offered a place in alternative provision, you probably have lots of questions. ReferralMS is the system some schools and providers use to keep everyone informed, so you can see how things are going.
What is alternative provision?
Alternative provision (often called AP) is education that takes place away from a child’s usual school. It might be a few days a week or full time, in a small group or one to one. Schools use it for many reasons – to give extra support, to help a young person get back on track, or after a suspension or exclusion.
Your child’s school stays responsible for them while they attend AP, including keeping them safe. You should be told where your child will be, when, and what the placement is aiming to achieve.
For parents and carers
A secure parent link
Your child’s school or provider can send you a secure, time-limited link to see attendance and progress – no password needed.
Good news, shared
When your child does well, you can receive a celebration email so you can share in their success.
Consent made simple
Sign consent forms online from your phone, with a copy kept safely on record.
For students
See your improvement
Attendance “then vs now” compares this week, month and term with the last, so you can see how far you’ve come.
Your progress
Work completed, levels passed and qualifications achieved, recorded by the staff who support you.
Next steps
Plans for what comes after your placement, from returning to school to college, training or work.
Keeping young people safe
- Staff working with your child have safeguarding checks recorded
- Referral and placement decisions are recorded with dates and names
- Built around the latest KCSIE safeguarding guidance
- Your family’s information is only seen by the people who need it
Frequently asked questions
How do I get access?
Access is set up by your child’s school or alternative provision. Ask them whether they use ReferralMS and can send you a parent link.
Is my child’s information safe?
Information is only visible to the school, provider and staff working with your child, and access is controlled by permissions.
Who do I speak to about my child’s placement?
Your child’s school is the best first contact for questions about a placement. We can help with questions about ReferralMS itself.
Have a question about alternative provision?
We’re happy to help. Get in touch and a member of our team will reply. Please don’t include your child’s name or personal details in your first message.