APC Curriculum Access Team (CAT)
Overview
The APC Curriculum Access Team (CAT) supports children and young people in mainstream schools who are finding school life difficult and may be at risk of exclusion. The goal is to help students Reengage with learning, Refocus on their strengths, and Reintegrate into school life with confidence.
Rooted in Alternative Provision, the team works alongside schools to provide the right help, at the right time, in the right place, bridging the gap between need and provision so every child can stay, belong, and succeed.
CAT offers flexible, intervention-led support that complements each school’s existing approach. Interventions are tailored to the individual pupil and adapt as their needs change, with a focus on enabling access to learning, addressing challenges early, and promoting positive behaviour for learning through targeted support, consultancy, and staff development.
Our support covers a wide range of areas to meet diverse needs, including SEND, mental health, youth crime prevention, and behaviour intervention. We also deliver programmes that build wellbeing and engagement, such as boxing for confidence, psychological support, and accessible curriculum pathways that ensure every learner can achieve success in a way that suits them. Through APC Online, students can access flexible learning opportunities, while our 3R Team (Reengage, Refocus, Reintegrate) works proactively to support reintegration and inclusion.
Support may include one-to-one mentoring, small group work, and targeted emotional and social development sessions. The team collaborates closely with school staff, families, and professionals to ensure consistent support that continues beyond their direct involvement.
CAT gives schools capacity without complexity, strengthening staff confidence, promoting inclusion, and helping students develop self-regulation, life skills, and a sense of belonging. The result is earlier intervention, reduced exclusions, and stronger, more inclusive school communities where young people are seen, supported, and given the opportunity to succeed.
