Beyond The Gate, formerly LAPA, was formed in April 2020 and is a not-for-profit unincorporated association with the aim of bringing alternative provision (schools for children and young people who cannot attend mainstream schools for illness or other reasons) experts from across the north of England together with a mission to improve the quality of education and outcomes for on for young people who attend those provisions. 

Beyond The Gate aims to intensify the collaboration with key stakeholders  - Local Authority, Alternative Provision providers, third sector organisations, FE providers, employers and mainstream schools; carry out extensive research into outstanding practice in similar settings to inform high quality CPD/shared learning and strategic partnerships, establishing a strong culture of continuous improvement in the  Alternative Provision sector - meaning more children and young people can access the best Alternative Provision when they need it and are able to move on to the next phase; to give a voice to the children, young people and families in Alternative Provision; upholding their rights and interests, wherever possible.