Welcome to The Alternative Voice, a podcast dedicated to exploring the dynamic world of alternative provision through the voices of those who know it best.
In each episode, Provisions Plus+ invite our approved training providers to the mic to share their unique journeys, insights, and experiences within the Provisions Plus+ network.
Our aim is to create a platform where stories are shared, challenges are discussed, and innovative ideas are exchanged, all in the spirit of enhancing alternative education.
Join us as we delve into the diverse narratives that shape the landscape of alternative provision and inspire change in the lives of learners.
Tune in to hear firsthand accounts, expert advice, and the passion that drives our guests to make a difference in the field of alternative provision. Whether you’re a training provider, educator, or simply interested in the transformative power of alternative provision, The Alternative Voice is here to amplify the conversations that matter.
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Purpose-Driven Education: Building Brighter Futures with Rebecca Freeman
Welcome to The Alternative Voice Podcast
In this episode, host Jade Neivens-Brown sits down with Rebecca Freeman, Managing Director of Illuminate AP, to explore what it really takes to create a nurturing, trauma-informed alternative provision in Bournemouth.
Rebecca opens up about her personal journey as a parent of children with special needs and how these experiences have shaped her professional mission. Together, Jade and Rebecca dive into the challenges of the education system, the importance of understanding local needs, and the power of collaboration across alternative provisions.
From the impact of the Reset Program to the essential role of strong partnerships with local authorities, this conversation highlights how purpose, compassion, and connection can truly transform education.
Tune in to discover how Illuminate AP is lighting the way for inclusive, purpose-driven education.
To find out more about Jade and Rebecca's work, please head to the below links:
Provisions Plus+: https://provisionsplus.co.uk/ (https://provisionsplus.co.uk/)
Illuminate AP: https://www.illuminateap.co.uk/ (https://www.illuminateap.co.uk/)
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
15 Oct 2025
From Trauma to Transformation: Abbie Fudge on Creating Safe, Supportive Spaces for Young People
Welcome to The Alternative Voice: Series 2
In this episode of The Alternative Voice podcast, Jade sits down with Abbie Fudge, Founding Director of Changing the Future, to explore the organisation’s inspiring work supporting individuals through trauma-informed practices.
Together, they discuss Abbie’s personal journey of healing from trauma and how it shaped her mission to create safer, more compassionate spaces for children, young people, and professionals. Abbie explains the importance of protective behaviours, helping individuals understand their right to feel safe, and how this approach underpins all of Change in the Future’s training and outreach.
The conversation also delves into the challenges faced during the pandemic, and how creativity and adaptability became essential in continuing to deliver support. Abbie shares exciting updates on upcoming training programmes focused on practical trauma-informed strategies, as well as the launch of World Feeling Safe Day—a powerful initiative raising awareness about safety and emotional well-being.
Abbie & Jade are also excited to announce their new partnership where they're bringing two new protective behaviours programmes!
Listeners will also hear about the importance of self-care for professionals, the role of community partnerships in expanding support, and why creating safe, nurturing environments is key to effective healing and positive change.
Whether you’re an educator, parent, carer, or professional passionate about trauma-informed practice, this episode offers valuable insight into how empathy and education can transform lives.
To find out more about Jade and Abi's work, please head to the below links:
Provisions Plus+: https://provisionsplus.co.uk/
Changing the Future: https://changingthefuture.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
29 Sept 2025
Redefining Education: Chelsea Mallabone on Flexibility, Well-Being & North Star’s Educations Future
Welcome to The Alternative Voice: Series 2
In this episode of The Alternative Voice podcast, host Jade sits down with Chelsea Mallabone, Director of North Star Education, to explore the inspiring journey of the organisation since its founding in 2021.
Together, they discuss how North Star has grown, the innovative programs they offer, and the importance of flexibility in alternative provision. Chelsea shares insight into the My Personal Pathway program, designed to support students’ mental well-being through small group learning, as well as the creative personal development opportunities such as dog grooming and early years education.
The conversation also highlights the significance of transition programs for students moving between mainstream and specialist settings, and the value of collaboration with local authorities and partners. The episode wraps up with an exciting look at North Star’s future, including post-16 initiatives, home education support groups, and new collaborations—all while maintaining a nurturing, student-first approach.
Whether you're an educator, parent, carer or simply passionate about youth empowerment, this episode will leave you hopeful and inspired by what’s possible when care meets innovation.
To find out more about Jade and Chelsea's work, please head to the below links:
Provisions Plus+: https://provisionsplus.co.uk/
North Star Education: https://www.facebook.com/NorthStarEd/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
28 Aug 2025
The AP Marketing Manual | Episode 2: Developing a Strong Marketing Plan in Alternative Provision
The AP Marketing Manual | Episode 2: Developing a Strong Marketing Plan in Alternative Provision
Welcome to the second episode of The AP Marketing Manual, a free video series created by Provisions Plus+ and Louise to help Alternative Provision (AP) services build stronger, smarter marketing strategies.
In this session we explore some tips on what to consider when working through the essential elements of developing a strong marketing plan within Alternative Provision.
We have explored the importance of understanding user journeys, and the significance of data analysis in refining marketing efforts. The conversation emphasizes the need for storytelling, stakeholder engagement, and the use of various marketing channels, including social media and newsletters, to effectively communicate the mission and successes of Alternative Provision services.
If you have any questions or want support on your own AP’s marketing journey, reach out to Jade from Provisions Plus+ or Kurt from Louise.
Jade: https://provisionsplus.co.uk/ (https://provisionsplus.co.uk/)
Kurt: kurt@wearelouise.co.uk (mailto:kurt@wearelouise.co.uk)
We’re here to help.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
18 Aug 2025
The AP Marketing Manual | The importance of a strong marketing strategy in Alternative Provision
The AP Marketing Manual | Episode 1: Discovering the importance of a strong marketing strategy in Alternative Provision
Welcome to the first episode of The AP Marketing Manual, a free video series created by Provisions Plus+ and Louise to help Alternative Provision (AP) services build stronger, smarter marketing strategies.
In this session, we explore how AP providers can uncover their unique strengths and turn them into a powerful, authentic marketing message. From identifying your niche and refining your value proposition, to using testimonials and student voice as part of your strategy, we’ll walk you through practical steps that help you stand out without selling out.
Whether you’re part of the Provisions Plus+ Network or completely new to thinking about marketing, this series is here to help you reflect, plan, and grow your visibility in a way that aligns with your purpose.
We’ll also share:
- How to define your AP’s strengths and specialisms
- Why staff and student voices are your most powerful tools
- Tips on creating a compelling brand message
- How your content and platform choices can reach the right stakeholders
If you have any questions or want support on your own AP’s marketing journey, reach out to:
Jade: https://provisionsplus.co.uk/ (https://provisionsplus.co.uk/)
Gemma: https://www.wearelouise.co.uk/ (https://www.wearelouise.co.uk/)
We’re here to help.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
20 Jun 2025
The Therapeutic Approach to Alternative Provision with Aspire & Thrive
Host Jade Neivens-Brown interviews Dave Hughes and Jack Cudworth about Aspire & Thrive's trauma-informed approach to alternative education, highlighting staff training and safe environments for youth empowerment.
13 Jun 2025
Redefining Success: Anthony Allen on Innovation and Impact in Alternative Provision
Anthony Allen, Head of School at Educ8, discusses adapting curriculum and attendance models to meet student needs and boost engagement in alternative provision with host Jade Neivens-Brown in this interview.
6 Jun 2025
Mentoring with Purpose: Marlon Walters on Relationships, Resilience & Raising Futures
Marlon Walters, founder of MW Impact, discusses alternative provision and youth mentoring with host Jade, emphasizing genuine relationships and passionate staff to support diverse young people and create lasting change in this interview.
30 May 2025
Redefining Education: Honesty, Healing & the Power of Alternative Provision with Joseph Squires
Joseph Squires discusses his journey into education and the power of alternative provisions, emphasizing honest relationships and emotional connections to create meaningful change in this interview with Jade.
23 May 2025
Emotional Intelligence, CSCS Training & the Power of Purpose with Richard Howes
Richard Howes discusses alternative education, emotional intelligence, and personalized learning approaches for transforming young lives in an interview with Jade, highlighting the importance of tailored support and individual growth.
15 May 2025
Innovative Mentoring Strategies for Youth Engagement with Jamie Ashmore
Jamie Ashmore from Foundations 4 the Future shares insights with host Jade Neivens-Brown on innovative mentoring strategies and rebranding efforts to enhance youth engagement, in this interview episode.
15 May 2025
Transforming Education: Angela's Journey in Alternative Provision
Angela Saunders, founding director, discusses her journey establishing an alternative provision center, highlighting creative learning and life skills, in an interview with Jade Neivens-Brown.
Who has been a guest on The Alternative Voice
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Dave Hughes
Jack Cudworth
Anthony Allen
Marlon Walters
Joseph Squires
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
697
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 18 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
10
Social presence
0
YouTube
66
Engagement
0
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