Alternative Provision
in Plymouth
Located at Lockyers Quay near the Barbican. 1:1 and small group sessions for Plymouth students.
About Our Plymouth Provision
Player Ready Level-Up! Alternative Provision Plymouth is a local authority approved provider based at 2 Lockyers Quay, near the Barbican Leisure Park and Aquarium. We offer specialised support in emotional well-being, mental health, and SEN, using the engaging world of technology to connect with students in a relatable, mentor-like manner.
Our Plymouth provision is educational but child-led — sessions involve coding lessons, robotics, Virtual Reality, 3D modelling, video creation and editing, and other tech-based activities in a relaxed, supportive environment. We offer coding lessons that build upon new skills each week resulting in a finished project at the end of each term.
Player Ready Plymouth Level-Up! advocates for education through play and interaction. Consistency in regular sessions fosters relationships with mentors and peers, creating genuine connections that become a pathway to confidence, social skills, and personal development.
AP Services in Plymouth
Flexible options for young people in Plymouth who need an alternative to mainstream school.
1:1 Mentoring
Dedicated mentor sessions tailored to the student's needs and interests. In-venue or online.
Small Group Sessions
In-venue group sessions with a maximum of 4 students. Social skills through shared gaming activities.
Online Nationwide
1:1 mentoring via video call using Minecraft, Roblox, and coding platforms. Available anywhere.
Post-16 Qualifications
NOCN accredited courses in game development and digital skills for 16-19 year olds.
Plymouth Area Information
Player Ready Plymouth is based near the Barbican Leisure Park and Aquarium, making it easy to find with nearby parking in the multi-storey car park or Premier Inn. The venue is accessible from across the city and surrounding areas.
We work closely with Plymouth City Council's SEND team and local schools including those in Devonport, Plympton, Plymstock, Ivybridge, and Saltash. Schools can commission directly or refer through the local authority.
Plymouth also benefits from our Exeter venue for families in the east of the city or along the A38 corridor. Both Devon venues are on the Devon County Council approved framework.
Supporting Young People in Plymouth
We work with young people aged 5-18 across Plymouth who are struggling in mainstream education. This includes students with autism (ASD), ADHD, anxiety, social-emotional and mental health needs (SEMH), young people experiencing school avoidance, and those who have been excluded or are at risk of exclusion.
Our approach uses gaming and technology — Minecraft, Roblox, coding, and digital creativity — as the foundation for learning. We don't replicate school. We create something different: calm, focused, and built around what the student actually enjoys.
Every approach is unique. We assess each student individually, match them with the right mentor, and create a personalised plan that addresses their specific needs and goals. Sessions are part-time — typically 3 to 15 hours per week.
Funding Options in Plymouth
Alternative provision can be funded through several routes.
- EHCP-funded provision via Plymouth City Council or Devon County Council
- EOTAS packages for students unable to attend mainstream school
- Section 19 emergency provision
- Direct Payments from personal budgets
- Self-funded places including AP-Lite group sessions
- Schools can commission directly for part-time or interim support
How to Refer from Plymouth
- 1Complete our online Professional Referral Form or Parent Referral Form
- 2Email alternativeprovision@player-ready.co.uk with the student's needs
- 3We arrange a free discovery session — meet the team and see the venue
- 4We create a personalised plan aligned to EHCP outcomes or education goals
- 5Provision typically starts within 5-10 working days
Your Nearest Venue
Player Ready Plymouth serves Plymouth with in-person alternative provision.
Frequently Asked Questions — Plymouth
Where is the Plymouth venue?+
Our Plymouth venue is at 2 Lockyers Quay, near the Barbican Leisure Park and National Marine Aquarium. There is nearby parking at the multi-storey car park and Premier Inn.
What sessions are available in Plymouth?+
We offer 1:1 mentoring, small group sessions (up to 4 students), and AP-Lite groups. Sessions run Monday to Friday during term time, 09:00 to 15:00. Online and hybrid options are also available.
Can schools in Plymouth refer directly?+
Yes. Plymouth schools can commission Player Ready directly for part-time, interim, or EOTAS support without needing to go through the local authority. We can provide all necessary documentation, DBS checks, safeguarding policies, and insurance certificates.
Do you support Post-16 students in Plymouth?+
Yes. We are an accredited NOCN centre offering Post-16 qualifications in game development and digital skills for students aged 16-19, requiring a minimum of 6 hours per week.
Make a Referral in Plymouth
Whether you're a local authority, school, or parent in Plymouth— we're here to help.
Email alternativeprovision@player-ready.co.uk or call 0117 463 3150