Pupil Referral Unit (PRU)

A Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) is a type of school that offers education to students who are; at risk of exclusion, permanently excluded from, or are not attending school for other reasons, such as illness (physical and psychological) or pregnancy.  As a school, alike our mainstream colleagues, PRU’s are subject to inspection and monitoring arrangements executed by OfSTED.

In Cumbria, there are three PRU’s – Barrow / Kendal (South), Carlisle (North) and Distington (West).  Each PRU currently offers education to students aged 7-16 with the exception of the North PRU who also offer support to the 5-7 age group.

The PRU’s core offer is to provide short-term placements (centre sessions) with the aim of successful re-integration into a mainstream setting.  Each PRU offers a continuum of support in a specialist environment delivering a broad and balanced curriculum, therapeutic studies and, where appropriate, counselling services.  Outreach support, delivered by our specialist staff, enhances the PRU’s collaborative working arrangements and is a valuable resource for pupils, parents and mainstream colleagues.

Longer-term placements are available for students whose needs cannot be met in a mainstream or special school setting.  These placements are primarily at KS4 and focus on preparing students for independent living and the world of work.

Whatever the context of the placement, students’ progress is assessed and monitored at all stages of their placement to ensure that provision remains appropriate and is outcome focused.

Placements are not referred by parents, each referral is discussed by a group of professionals who, based on their extensive experience, decide the appropriate action.

Useful links

• Department for Education
• Ofsted