The Alternative Voice

Welcome to The Alternative Voice PodcastIn this episode, host Jade Neivens-Brown sits down with Rebecca Freeman, Managing Director of Illuminate AP, to explore what it really takes to create a nurturing, trauma-informed alternative provision in Bournemouth.Rebecca opens up about her personal journey as a parent of children with special needs and how these experiences have shaped her professional mission. Together, Jade and Rebecca dive into the challenges of the education system, the importance of understanding local needs, and the power of collaboration across alternative provisions.From the impact of the Reset Program to the essential role of strong partnerships with local authorities, this conversation highlights how purpose, compassion, and connection can truly transform education.Tune in to discover how Illuminate AP is lighting the way for inclusive, purpose-driven education.To find out more about Jade and Rebecca's work, please head to the below links:Provisions Plus+: https://provisionsplus.co.uk/Illuminate AP: https://www.illuminateap.co.uk/

Welcome to The Alternative Voice: Series 2In this episode of The Alternative Voice podcast, Jade sits down with Abbie Fudge, Founding Director of Changing the Future, to explore the organisation’s inspiring work supporting individuals through trauma-informed practices.Together, they discuss Abbie’s personal journey of healing from trauma and how it shaped her mission to create safer, more compassionate spaces for children, young people, and professionals. Abbie explains the importance of protective behaviours, helping individuals understand their right to feel safe, and how this approach underpins all of Change in the Future’s training and outreach.The conversation also delves into the challenges faced during the pandemic, and how creativity and adaptability became essential in continuing to deliver support. Abbie shares exciting updates on upcoming training programmes focused on practical trauma-informed strategies, as well as the launch of World Feeling Safe Day—a powerful initiative raising awareness about safety and emotional well-being.Abbie & Jade are also excited to announce their new partnership where they're bringing two new protective behaviours programmes! Listeners will also hear about the importance of self-care for professionals, the role of community partnerships in expanding support, and why creating safe, nurturing environments is key to effective healing and positive change.Whether you’re an educator, parent, carer, or professional passionate about trauma-informed practice, this episode offers valuable insight into how empathy and education can transform lives.To find out more about Jade and Abi's work, please head to the below links:Provisions Plus+: https://provisionsplus.co.uk/Changing the Future: https://changingthefuture.co.uk/

Welcome to The Alternative Voice: Series 2In this episode of The Alternative Voice podcast, host Jade sits down with Chelsea Mallabone, Director of North Star Education, to explore the inspiring journey of the organisation since its founding in 2021. Together, they discuss how North Star has grown, the innovative programs they offer, and the importance of flexibility in alternative provision. Chelsea shares insight into the My Personal Pathway program, designed to support students’ mental well-being through small group learning, as well as the creative personal development opportunities such as dog grooming and early years education. The conversation also highlights the significance of transition programs for students moving between mainstream and specialist settings, and the value of collaboration with local authorities and partners. The episode wraps up with an exciting look at North Star’s future, including post-16 initiatives, home education support groups, and new collaborations—all while maintaining a nurturing, student-first approach. Whether you're an educator, parent, carer or simply passionate about youth empowerment, this episode will leave you hopeful and inspired by what’s possible when care meets innovation. To find out more about Jade and Chelsea's work, please head to the below links: Provisions Plus+: https://provisionsplus.co.uk/North Star Education: https://www.facebook.com/NorthStarEd/

The AP Marketing Manual | Episode 1: Discovering the importance of a strong marketing strategy in Alternative ProvisionWelcome to the first episode of The AP Marketing Manual, a free video series created by Provisions Plus+ and Louise to help Alternative Provision (AP) services build stronger, smarter marketing strategies.In this session, we explore how AP providers can uncover their unique strengths and turn them into a powerful, authentic marketing message. From identifying your niche and refining your value proposition, to using testimonials and student voice as part of your strategy, we’ll walk you through practical steps that help you stand out without selling out.Whether you’re part of the Provisions Plus+ Network or completely new to thinking about marketing, this series is here to help you reflect, plan, and grow your visibility in a way that aligns with your purpose.We’ll also share:- How to define your AP’s strengths and specialisms- Why staff and student voices are your most powerful tools- Tips on creating a compelling brand message- How your content and platform choices can reach the right stakeholdersIf you have any questions or want support on your own AP’s marketing journey, reach out to:Jade: https://provisionsplus.co.uk/Gemma: https://www.wearelouise.co.uk/We’re here to help.

Welcome to The Alternative VoiceIn this episode of The Alternative Voice, host Jade Neivens-Brown speaks with Dave Hughes and Jack Cudworth from Aspire & Thrive—a trauma-informed, therapeutic alternative provision making waves in education.Together, they dive deep into their personal journeys into alternative education and explore the mission behind Aspire & Thrive. From the importance of staff training and development to the power of student voice, this conversation reveals how they’re reshaping the landscape of education for young people who need a different kind of support.You’ll hear how they’re creating safe, nurturing environments, addressing emotional and behavioural needs with a therapeutic lens, and even developing innovative transport solutions to ensure every young person can access the support they deserve.Whether you're an educator, parent, carer or simply passionate about youth empowerment, this episode will leave you hopeful and inspired by what’s possible when care meets innovation.To find out more about Jade and Aspire & Thrives work, please head to the below links:Provisions Plus+Aspire & Thrive

Welcome to The Alternative VoiceIn this episode of The Alternative Voice, host Jade Neivens-Brown speaks with Anthony Allen, Head of School at Educ8, who brings nearly 20 years of experience in alternative provision.Anthony shares how Educ8 has adapted its full curriculum including vocational qualifications to meet the evolving needs of students, especially in the wake of COVID-19. He discusses the success of their innovative two-day attendance model, strategies to boost student engagement (such as shorter lessons and tailored support), and the essential role of strong relationships with students and their families.The conversation also highlights the importance of staff support and teamwork, Educ8's respected reputation with local schools, and the potential to expand into post-16 and primary education. Anthony emphasises why it’s time to celebrate the real successes of alternative provision and recognise its vital role in the wider education landscape.To find out more about Jade and Anthony's work, please head to the below links:Provisions Plus+Educ8

Welcome to The Alternative VoiceIn this episode of The Alternative Voice, host Jade sits down with Marlon Walters founder of MW Impact to explore his powerful journey into alternative provision and youth mentoring. Marlon opens up about the role of family support in education, the unique challenges young people face, and the importance of building genuine relationships with both students and their families.He discusses the critical need for passionate, well-chosen staff who can connect with young people from diverse backgrounds and how team dynamics and collaboration are central to making a lasting impact. Marlon also shares how his foundation supports children with special educational needs (SEN), and the importance of community partnerships in creating meaningful change.This episode is a heartfelt conversation about overcoming self-doubt, trusting your vision, and the transformative power of mentorship in shaping brighter futures.To find out more about Jade and Marlon's work, please head to the below links:Provisions Plus+MW Impact

Welcome to The Alternative VoiceIn this episode of The Alternative Voice, host Jade chats with Joseph Squire, director of We’re Hear For You, about his journey into education and the power of alternative provision. Joseph opens up about the challenges he faced as a student and how they now shape his approach to supporting young people.Joseph also shares the importance of honest relationships, emotional connection, and collaboration in education. Together, they explore the value of adaptability, quality assurance, and truly listening to students to create meaningful change.To find out more about Jade and Josephs work, please head to the below links:Provisions Plus+We're Hear For You