What is Spark Ignite?

Spark Ignite is a small, specialist alternative provision offering creative re-engagement support for children and young people who are struggling to access mainstream education.

We focus on emotional safety, regulation and confidence-building through low-demand, relationship-led and creative approaches.

Who is Spark Ignite for?

Spark Ignite typically supports children and young people aged 7–16 who may be:

• neurodivergent
• experiencing anxiety or emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA)
• accessing reduced timetables or EOTAS
• temporarily out of education
• struggling with emotional regulation or engagement

All placements are considered individually following referral.

Where is Spark Ignite based?

Spark Ignite is based in Greater Manchester and offers provision across Greater Manchester and surrounding areas.

The location of provision is agreed on a case by case basis following referral and risk assessment.

Is Spark Ignite a school?

No. Spark Ignite is not a school and does not replace statutory education provision.

Our role is to complement existing arrangements, supporting re-engagement and wellbeing alongside schools or local authorities.

Who can make a referral?

Referrals can be made by:

• schools
• local authorities
• parents and carers

All referrals are submitted via our online referral form and reviewed before any provision is agreed.

Does submitting a referral guarantee a place?

No. Submitting a referral does not guarantee a placement.

All referrals are reviewed to ensure Spark Ignite can safely and appropriately meet the child or young person’s needs.

What type of support does Spark Ignite offer?

Spark Ignite can offer:

• 1:1 re-engagement support
• small group provision (carefully matched)
• creative and arts-based activities
• regulation-focused sessions

The type and frequency of provision is agreed following referral review.

Does Spark Ignite support children with EHCPs?

Yes. Spark Ignite can support children and young people with EHCPs where appropriate.

We work alongside schools and local authorities but do not take responsibility for statutory SEN processes.

Is Arts Award included in sessions?

No. Arts Award accreditation is optional and charged separately.

The Arts Award fee covers registration, guidance, portfolio support and moderation administration.
Session fees apply separately.

How is safeguarding managed?

Safeguarding is central to Spark Ignite.

We operate under robust safeguarding, risk assessment and lone working policies, and work in line with local authority safeguarding procedures. Safeguarding concerns are always prioritised over confidentiality.

Where does provision take place?

Provision may take place at agreed venues or community-based locations, depending on the nature of the support and individual needs.

All locations and activities are risk assessed.

How are fees agreed?

Fees are agreed following referral review and confirmed in writing prior to the start of provision.

Pricing varies depending on individual needs, level of support required and funding arrangements.

Can parents request group provision?

Group provision is offered at the discretion of Spark Ignite and is subject to assessment, suitability and compatibility.

Not all children will be suitable for group-based provision.

How do I get started?

If you feel Spark Ignite may be suitable, the first step is to complete our referral form.