In part 2 of our conversation with Stephen Steinhaus, CEO of Solihull Alternative Provision Multi-Academy Trust, we delve deeper into the challenges and changes shaping alternative provision and mainstream education today. If you missed part 1, we recommend catching up for context on Stephen’s unique journey and his experience in founding the MAT.

In this episode, Stephen sheds light on the troubling rise in permanent exclusions across schools, examining the factors driving these numbers and the need for a more supportive, integrated approach. We discuss how mainstream and alternative settings can build stronger partnerships to support students facing challenges in traditional school environments, offering practical strategies for collaboration that can benefit students, staff, and families alike. Stephen emphasises the importance of an adaptable, student-centred approach that meets young people where they are- rather than expecting them to conform to a one-size-fits-all model.

We also tackle the current recruitment crisis in education, a challenge impacting both mainstream and alternative provisions nationwide. Stephen shares his thoughts on why the teaching profession is struggling to attract and retain talent and what he thinks needs to change to encourage more young people into the profession.

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To find out more about Stephen Steinhaus, visit his LinkedIn profile.

All views expressed in this episode are the guest's own. Any mention of commercial providers, resources or products is on the guest’s recommendation and should not be considered an endorsement by The Key.