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Devon’s SEND Local Offer

Non-school AEP Open Framework providers

When Devon County Council arranges non‑school alternative education provision (AEP), we will usually work with providers who are part of our Open Framework.

Providers on the Open Framework have applied through a legal tender process and have passed a range of quality checks and due‑diligence tests. We continue to work with these providers to monitor the quality of their services and the outcomes for children and young people.

Providers who aren’t currently on the Open Framework will have an opportunity once a year to apply to join. Providers who would like more information can contact the SEND Commissioning and Contracts Team at: educate.inclusionlearningcommissioning-mailbox@devon.gov.uk

Open Framework provider list (April 2026)

The type of support and services offered by non‑school AEP providers varies greatly. Some offer tutoring, coaching or mentoring support (either in person or on-line). Others offer practical activities, for example, Forest Schools, animal, or sports-based activities.

We’ve grouped details of the non-schools AEP providers and services that are part of the Open Framework as of April 2026 into service groups, to help parents and carers see what’s available. Some providers offer more than one type of service, so they may appear in more than one service group.

Developing a public provider directory

During 2026, and in response to feedback from parents and carers, we’d like to work with families to develop a public directory of our Open Framework non‑school AEP providers, building on the information currently available.

If you are a parent or carer and would like to be involved, please send your name and contact details to the SEND Commissioning and Contracts Team at: educate.inclusionlearningcommissioning-mailbox@devon.gov.uk

Information for schools

At this time, schools cannot use the Open Framework to commission their own non‑school AEP services or to replace their existing contracting arrangements.

Schools must continue to:

  • carry out their own due‑diligence and quality checks
  • arrange contracts directly with providers
  • agree prices independently

The Open Framework does not recommend or endorse providers for schools, but shares information about providers who have completed a formal tender process with Devon County Council.