For some children with special educational needs (SEN), traditional school environments simply don’t work. They may struggle with anxiety, sensory issues, or unmet learning needs that prevent them from thriving in a classroom setting. In such cases, EOTAS—Education Otherwise Than At School—can be a life-changing alternative that provides the personalised support children need.

EOTAS is a legal provision available through an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) when it’s clear that school is not suitable for the child’s learning, development, or well-being. Instead of attending a mainstream or special school, the child receives a customised education package at home or in another setting. This can include 1:1 tuition, therapy sessions, specialist teaching, and flexible learning approaches tailored to their specific needs.

Choosing EOTAS is not about giving up on education. It’s about redefining education in a way that meets the child where they are. Many families turn to EOTAS after years of struggling with mainstream schooling, exclusions, bullying, or lack of progress. With EOTAS, children often begin to feel safe, engaged, and more confident in their learning journey.

To access EOTAS, the child must have an EHCP, and the local authority must agree that school is not appropriate. This usually requires strong evidence, such as professional reports from psychologists, therapists, or doctors. The EHCP must specifically state that the child will receive education otherwise than at school under section I of the plan. This gives parents the right to hold the authority accountable for delivering the promised support.

A well-planned EOTAS package might include visits from subject-specialist tutors, creative arts therapy, online courses, outdoor learning experiences, and more. The flexibility of EOTAS allows for a truly personalised education, which can help children rediscover a love of learning in a stress-free environment.

At SIGXMA C.I.C, we help families navigate the EOTAS process from start to finish. Our team works with parents to gather the right evidence, liaise with professionals, and negotiate effective support with local authorities. We also provide qualified tutors and specialists who deliver high-quality, child-led education outside of the school system.

EOTAS isn’t the right choice for every child—but for those it fits, it can offer a powerful alternative to traditional schooling. If your child is struggling, exploring this route could open up a world of opportunity tailored just for them.

SEO Keywords Used Naturally
EOTAS, Education Otherwise Than At School, alternative education for SEN, EHCP support, EOTAS package, 1:1 tuition, special educational needs alternatives, SEN support