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ADMISSIONS & REFERRALS

A Supportive Admissions Process Built Around the Young Person

Fast Forward School provides a personalised and supportive setting for young people aged 15 to 19 who need a different approach to education. Admissions are designed to be clear, responsive and carefully planned, so that each learner’s transition into school is handled with care and consideration. The handbook describes the process as thorough but supportive, with a strong focus on making sure the school can meet the needs of each young person.
HOW IT WORKS

How Referrals Work

Places at Fast Forward are made through Local Authority referral. The school works closely with local authorities and SEND caseworkers to review each referral and decide whether the provision is the right fit. If Fast Forward believes it can meet the learner’s needs, a tailored support package is prepared and offered for review.
This means Fast Forward is not a standard open-enrolment school. Most placements are arranged through professional referral routes rather than direct public applications.

What Happens Next

Once a placement is agreed, the admissions process usually includes:
Review of Referral Information
Home Visit
Enrolment Paperwork
Individual Learning Plan
Visit the School
Taster Sessions
Initial and Diagnostic Assessments
These early steps help the school understand the learner’s academic levels, emotional wellbeing and support needs from the very beginning, so that teaching, timetables and interventions can be personalised from day one.
DESIGNED FOR YOU

A flexible, Personalised Transition

Fast Forward operates a rolling admissions model, which means learners can join throughout the academic year. This allows the school to respond quickly to referrals and reduce unnecessary time out of education. The school also keeps class sizes small, with groups of up to five learners, helping create a calm environment with high levels of individual support.
WHO WE WORK WITH

Working with Families and Professionals

Fast Forward works closely with parents, carers, local authorities and other professionals throughout the admissions process. Visits, conversations and early planning all help make sure that learners and families feel informed, supported and prepared for the transition into school. The wider school approach also places strong emphasis on partnership working between home and school.
LEARNING THAT FEELS RELEVANT

Find Out More

Contact Us
If you would like to discuss a referral, ask a question about the admissions process or find out whether Fast Forward may be the right setting for a young person, please contact the school directly.
For more detailed information, please view our Admissions Policy or visit the Contact Us page.