Education 
Other
Than Schools

Education Otherwise Than At School (EOTAS) refers to any form of education that takes place outside the traditional school setting. It is designed to meet the individual needs of children and young people who are unable to attend a mainstream or special school.

Under Section 61 of the Children and Families Act 2014, local authorities have the power to agree to an EOTAS                   arrangement for children and young people whose social,  emotional, behavioural, medical, or other challenges prevent them from accessing education in a school environment.

Section F of the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) outlines the specific educational provision required to meet the child’s needs. This may include a range of support within the EOTAS framework that replaces what a mainstream school would typically provide—such as access to the national curriculum, educational visits, necessary equipment, specialist         services, and any other relevant education, health, or social care provision.

Like all EHCPs, EOTAS arrangements are subject to Annual Review. They may be put in place as a short-term solution (e.g., from the issuance of the EHCP to the first Annual Review) or as a long-term arrangement,    depending on the needs of the child or young person.