Education other than at school (commonly shortened to EOTAS) refers to special educational provision arranged by the local authority for a child who cannot attend a mainstream or special school.
EOTAS may also be called ‘education otherwise than at school’ or ‘education other than in a school (EOTIS)’. While the wording varies, all terms mean the same thing.
It is usually set out in an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and exists to support children who have complex SEND, medical or emotional needs, or significant behavioural difficulties.
In this guide, TLC LIVE explains what EOTAS is, how it works in the UK, and what families should consider when exploring this option.
Education Other Than at School (EOTAS) – a legal explanation
So, what is EOTAS? As mentioned, education otherwise than at school relates to the plan for provisions put in place by the local authority to provide education to children who cannot attend school.
Legally, Section 61 of the Children and Families Act 2014 details that:
- A local authority in England may arrange for any special educational provision that it has decided is necessary for a child or young person for whom it is responsible to be made otherwise than in a school or post-16 institution or a place at which relevant early years education is provided.
Section 19 of the Education Act 1996 also places a duty on local authorities to provide suitable, full‑time education for children, including those unable to attend school, regardless of the reason. Importantly, this applies even if the child does not yet have an EHCP (for example, if excluded, signed off for medical reasons, or unable to attend due to severe anxiety).
In practice, this means EOTAS can arise either temporarily under Section 19 (as a stop‑gap while a child is out of school), or formally as part of an EHCP. The latter is more common and is the legally enforceable route for ongoing provision.
Why might a child need EOTAS?
Every child in the UK is entitled to a suitable, full‑time education, as per Section 19 of the Education Act 1996. If no school setting can provide this, the local authority may consider education otherwise than at school, and parents can push for this too.
Situations where education other than at school provisions may arise include:
- Complex SEND needs that a school cannot meet.
- Ongoing medical needs (e.g. chronic illness, disability, recovery from injury).
- Mental health needs or anxiety severe enough to prevent school attendance (sometimes called Emotionally Based School Avoidance).
- Significant behavioural challenges linked to SEND needs.
The local authority makes the decision, weighing up the child’s individual circumstances and professional evidence.
What does EOTAS look like in practice?
EOTAS is always personalised, based on the EHCP and the child’s needs. No two packages look the same, because each provision is tailored to the child’s needs.
Examples of provisions include:
- One‑to‑one tuition at home or a community venue.
- Online learning or online homeschooling.
- Specialist therapies (e.g. speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy).
- Therapeutic or mentoring support.
- Access to specialist learning centres (e.g. a Pupil Referral Unit, though only where appropriate).
All provisions should be clearly detailed in Section F of the EHCP, which makes it legally enforceable. For some children, there may be a mixture of EOTAS settings such as therapies and private tuition, for others is may just entail the one provision.
Accessing EOTAS support – what do I need?
Start by talking to your child’s school and local authority about the barriers to attendance. If your child already has an EHCP (or you’ve applied for one), you can request that EOTAS be considered during the assessment process or at an annual review.
Evidence is crucial. Ensure you keep record of:
- Absences from school with explanations.
- Medical letters or reports.
- Professional assessments (e.g. teachers, counsellors, doctors).
- Written statements about your child’s particular needs.
If the local authority refuses, you have the right to appeal to the SEND Tribunal. Many families also find advice and support through local forums, SENDIASS services, and advocacy groups.
Is EOTAS the right path for your child?
Education otherwise than at school is not an easy option, but for some children, it is the only way they can access appropriate education. When delivered well, it can be life‑changing, enabling children to thrive in a way traditional schooling could not.
If you’re considering EOTAS, it’s always best to seek advice from SEND organisations, advocacy groups, or specialist legal advisors. Peer support from other parents can also be invaluable.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is EOTAS available across the UK?
Yes, but frameworks differ. In England, it’s covered under Section 61 of the Children and Families Act 2014 and Section 19 of the Education Act 1996. In Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland, similar duties exist but with different guidance, so always check with your local authority.
Can EOTAS be part‑time?
Local authorities are required to secure suitable full‑time education. Part‑time provision is only permitted in exceptional circumstances (e.g. phased reintegration) where it is professionally recommended and in the child’s best interests.
What does my child need to get EOTAS?
In most cases, an EHCP naming EOTAS is required for ongoing provision. The local authority must be satisfied no school placement is suitable.
However, under Section 19, children without an EHCP who cannot attend school (for illness, exclusion, or severe anxiety) must still receive alternative education arranged by the local authority. This is usually temporary until assessment or EHCP completion. This is a complex matter though and will need to be navigated with your school and local authority.
Will my child fall behind if they have EOTAS?
Not at all. In fact, the purpose of EOTAS is to prevent this. When provision is tailored correctly through the EHCP, the learning should be adapted around the child so they can keep up and progress in a way that suits their learning patterns.
Does EOTAS cost parents anything?
No. Provision agreed as part of an EHCP is funded by the local authority. Parents can choose to supplement with extras (enrichment activities, day trips), but they are not expected to.
What is the difference between EOTAS and a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU)?
A PRU is a type of alternative provision within a school setting. EOTAS is an overarching plan arranged by the local authority, which may or may not include a PRU.
Is EOTAS permanent?
Not always. For some children, EOTAS is a temporary solution, with the aim of reintegration into school when possible. For others, where no school can reasonably meet needs, it may be a long‑term arrangement. Progress and provision are reviewed at EHCP annual reviews.
Final thoughts
Education otherwise than at school can feel like an overwhelming area to navigate, but parents should remember that the law places clear duties on local authorities to make sure children have access to a suitable education, wherever that may happen best.
In the meantime, if you feel your child may benefit from individual, personalised tuition, you can find out about TLC LIVE’s online private tutoring services as well as our Online School.
With the right support and evidence, EOTAS ensures children who don’t fit into school environments can still learn, progress, and thrive.