Who We Are

About Alternative Education Provision (AEP)

At SOC Alternative Education, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of the challenges they may have faced in mainstream education. Our Alternative Education Provision provides a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to rebuild confidence, develop resilience and achieve their full potential.

We understand that every learner is unique. That’s why we offer personalised learning programmes, small class sizes and dedicated pastoral support to meet the individual needs of each student. Our experienced team works closely with families, schools and external agencies to ensure every learner receives the guidance and encouragement they need to thrive both academically and personally.

Our aim is to inspire students to re-engage with education, develop valuable life skills and prepare for their next steps, whether that is returning to mainstream education, progressing to further education, training or employment. Through high-quality teaching, strong relationships and a commitment to student wellbeing, we help every young person build a positive future.

Our Mission for Alternative Education

Our mission is to empower students through bespoke support, helping them flourish in education and achieve their lifelong ambitions.

At SOC Alternative Education, our mission is to transform lives through education. We provide young people with the support, guidance and opportunities they need to overcome challenges, rediscover a love of learning and achieve positive outcomes. By nurturing confidence, resilience and ambition, we empower every student to believe in themselves and build a brighter future.

Our AEP Team

Sandeep Athwal

Director

With a degree in Psychology and numerous certifications in training and assessment, Sandeep holds the position of Director at the School of Coding Alternative Education Provision, spearheading the business's growth strategy and recruitment efforts. Sandeep actively seeks out fresh talent for the company across the UK & Europe. Additionally, she serves as the co-founder of SOC Communities Foundation, a charitable organisation dedicated to assisting underprivileged communities across the UK, Europe, & Asia. Outside of her professional endeavors, Sandeep is a devoted mother of two and a loving spouse to Manny Athwal. She has a keen interest in fashion and cherishes spending time with her children and family.

Suki Gill

Head Teacher

Suki Gill, serving as both our Director of Education and Quality as well as the Designated Safeguarding Lead, possesses extensive expertise in her field. With an MSc in Computing and 11 years of experience as Head of Department, she brings a rich background to her role. Having worked across a spectrum of school environments, such as Grammar, Independent, and Boarding secondary schools, Suki has also served as an OCR examiner and NEA moderator for 9 years. Through these roles, she has actively contributed to increasing female participation in Computing and STEM subjects.

Nina Bhambra

AEP Lead / DSL

Nina fills the role of Exams Officer which is a key administrative professional who is responsible for managing all aspects of examination processes in our educational institution. She ensures the smooth organisation, scheduling, and supervision of exams, maintaining strict adherence to regulations and standards. With meticulous attention to detail, she handles exam registration, distribute exam materials, and coordinates invigilation. Nina's role is crucial in ensuring the integrity and efficiency of the examination process.

Luke Woodberry

AEP Teacher / DSL

Luke holds a 2:1 degree in Computer Games Design with a specialism in 3D animation. He has experience working on both professional and personal projects, as well as in social media content creation. He is eager to share his skills and knowledge with students, helping them develop creative and technical expertise for the future.

Simran Bargota

AEP P.E Teacher / DSL

Simran brings a positive, energetic approach to her role, supported by a strong background in sport and sport science. With experience participating in football, netball and athletics teams, Simran integrates her passion for physical activity into her work, fostering motivation, confidence, and engagement among learners. She holds A-levels in Biology and Psychology, alongside a BTEC in Sport, which underpin her understanding of both physical and mental wellbeing. Simran chose to work at the School of Coding AEP because she strongly aligns with its values and commitment to supporting young people. She is passionate about empowering the next generation, amplifying young adults’ voices.

Mani Brainch

Mathematics Teacher

Mani brings nearly 40 years of teaching experience, specialising in Mathematics, Science, and ICT across secondary schools in the West Midlands. With a degree and PGCE in Social Sciences, he has developed a strong foundation in both curriculum knowledge and effective pedagogical practice. Over the course of his career, Mani has held the role of Senior Head of House and has significant experience teaching in SEN settings, as well as working closely with pupils with SEND needs within mainstream schools. His extensive experience helps him create inclusive, supportive learning environments where students are encouraged to build confidence and achieve their academic potential.

What Our Students Say

Before I started working with School of Coding, I was in a position where I was set up for failure. Now I have felt extremely confident while working here on my GCSEs, I have been supported all year. I am now a completely different person and have learned everything I need to pass in just one year.

The School of Coding offers top-notch education and training in computer programming. Its experienced instructors provide students with a solid foundation in programming languages and the latest technologies and tools used in the industry. Highly recommend.

I've attended a course on Moodle for Teachers, and I have to say they were amazing. Everybody in School of Coding made a big effort to make the attendants feel comfortable. They are happy to answer questions and always willing to help. Also their organization is very good.

A gem of a place, with some great staff. Both my kids thoroughly enjoyed their time there before lockdown, but are now using their online elearning to maintain their newly acquired skills. Never seen my kids so excited to learn... well done School of Coding.

Learnt many things in the computer science course and also learnt multiple languages (python, scratch). Highly recommended! Amazing friendly staff. Boosted my grades massively in computer science. Lessons continued even through covid via Google meet which didn't stop everyone from learning.