Approved Alternative Provision Provider for BCP Council
Welcome to Best Foot Forward
​Best Foot Forward is a leading alternative education provider in Hampshire, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, specialising in bespoke tutoring and mentoring programmes for young people who are not currently accessing full-time education. We support learners who have struggled in mainstream settings by offering a personalised, flexible approach tailored to their individual needs.
​
Our service is built on strong relationships with both students and their families. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, empathetic support, recognising the complex challenges that can arise when traditional education systems are not the right fit.
​
Personalised Support for Every Learner
​
At Best Foot Forward, we believe that education, emotional wellbeing, and social development are key to creating positive futures. Our programmes are designed to nurture:
-
Confidence and self-esteem
-
Emotional resilience
-
Independence and life skills
-
A lifelong love of learning
​
We provide a safe, supportive learning environment where young people can re-engage with education at their own pace and in a way that works for them.
​
Specialist SEN and EBSA Support
​
Our experienced team has extensive expertise in supporting young people with a wide range of Special Educational Needs (SEN), including:
-
EBSA (Emotionally Based School Avoidance)
-
Autism (ASC)
-
ADHD
-
Social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs
-
Behavioural challenges
​
We use evidence-based strategies that are proven to support neurodiverse learners, while recognising that every young person is unique. There is no “one size fits all” approach—each programme is carefully designed around the individual.
​
Empowering Young People to Thrive
​
Our mission is to empower young people to succeed both academically and personally. Through tailored education plans, mentoring, and therapeutic-informed practice, we help students build the skills and confidence they need to:
-
Reintegrate into education or training
-
Develop meaningful relationships
-
Achieve long-term independence
-
Move forward with a positive outlook
​
If you are looking for a trusted alternative provision in Hampshire, Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole that truly understands and supports young people with additional needs, Best Foot Forward is here to help.
Our Partners
.jpg)
What We Do
Supporting Young People Who Struggle in Mainstream Education
​
At Best Foot Forward, we understand that school can feel challenging, overwhelming, and inaccessible for many young people—particularly those with additional needs or who have had negative experiences in mainstream education.
​
That’s why we provide specialist alternative provision services in Hampshire, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, designed to support students who are unable to thrive in traditional school environments.
​
Bespoke Alternative Provision - Education and Mentoring
​
We work in close partnership with schools, local authorities, and families to deliver individualised tutoring and mentoring programmes that are tailored to each student’s unique needs.
​
Our personalised approach helps young people to:
-
Overcome barriers to learning
-
Rebuild confidence and self-esteem
-
Re-engage with education
-
Make meaningful, measurable progress
​
Every programme is carefully designed to provide the right balance of academic support, emotional wellbeing, and personal development.
​
A Flexible, Student-Centred Approach
​
We believe that effective education starts with understanding how each young person learns best. Our team adapts teaching methods to suit the individual, creating a supportive environment where students feel safe, valued, and motivated to succeed.
“If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.”
— Ignacio Estrada
Testimonials
“From before my child even started, the communication has always been amazing. Sam is incredible – friendly, patient, and explains things in a way that really makes sense. My child has also recently started with Clare and already feels that she explains things clearly and well. I couldn’t be happier with the support we’ve received from Best Foot Forward.”
– Diana
The most direct way to access our alternative education and mentoring services in Hampshire, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole is by completing our online referral form.
​
Providing as much detail as possible allows our team to develop a bespoke, individualised support plan tailored to your young person’s specific needs. This ensures we can deliver a focused alternative provision programme that supports meaningful engagement, progress, and positive outcomes.
​
What to Include in Your Referral
To help us create the most effective provision, please include any relevant documentation, such as:
-
EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan)
-
Risk Assessments
-
Any additional reports or supporting information
​
The more comprehensive the information provided, the better we can design a targeted tutoring and mentoring package that meets the needs of the young person.