Ordinarily available provision (OAP)
Every child learns differently. Schools work to make sure all children feel included, supported and able to achieve their potential.
Some children may need extra help with learning, communication, friendships, emotional wellbeing or physical needs. Much of this support can be provided by schools through everyday teaching and classroom practice.
This is known as Ordinarily Available Provision (OAP). You may also hear it referred to as the Universal Offer or Universal Support. OAP is the support that all mainstream schools should provide as part of their inclusive practice.
What is ordinarily available provision?
Ordinarily available provision includes:
- high-quality teaching for all pupils
- inclusive classroom practices
- reasonable adjustments to support learning
- strategies to remove barriers to participation
- regular assessment and review of progress
These approaches benefit all children, support many children and are essential for some children with additional needs. Schools regularly assess, plan, do and review support to help children make progress, with parents and carers playing an important role in the process.
What support can schools provide?
Schools may use a range of approaches to support children and young people.
Learning environment
Schools aim to provide safe, welcoming and organised learning environments that help children feel ready to learn. This may include visual supports, clear routines, adapted workspaces and consideration of sensory needs.
Teaching and learning
Teachers use different approaches to meet the needs of all learners. This can include breaking learning into smaller steps, using visual and practical resources, checking understanding regularly and providing additional support during transitions.
Resources and visual supports
Children may have access to visual prompts, checklists, writing frames, practical learning resources and assistive technology where appropriate.
Communication and vocabulary
Schools support children to develop language and communication skills by teaching new vocabulary, using visual supports and creating opportunities to practise and revisit learning.
Independence, wellbeing and self-regulation
Schools help children develop confidence, resilience and independence. This may include emotional regulation strategies, movement breaks, sensory supports and opportunities to develop problem-solving skills.
Assessment, feedback and homework
Schools use assessment to understand children's strengths and identify any barriers to learning. They provide feedback to support progress and aim to make homework accessible and achievable for all pupils.
Download the guide
For more information and examples of ordinarily available provision in mainstream schools, download the guide for parents and carers.