Wandsworth Council is set to trial AV1 robots in a needs-led implementation to support students with medical needs, emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA), and those covered under Section 19. The initiative aims to ensure these children continue to receive quality education, improve their wellbeing, and maintain engagement. The AV1 program will focus on children with medical needs, those experiencing Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA), and children covered under Section 19, particularly those with anxiety related attendance barriers. The program will be implemented in collaboration with 5 Mainstream Primary Schools, 1 Mainstream Secondary School, HHTS (Hospital and Home Tuition Service), and Section 19 Cases.

The AV1 robot, developed by No Isolation, serves as a remote learning avatar, providing a 'physical presence' in the classroom for students who cannot attend in person. Through a dedicated app, students can connect to their AV1 at school, enabling them to hear, see, and speak as if they were physically present. The robot can be moved between classes and outside, ensuring the remote learner doesn't miss any part of school life.

The council is considering introducing up to 20 AV1 robots. The AV1 programme would be overseen by the Inclusion Services/EP / Wandsworth Hospital Schools and Home Tuition Service to cover children particularly with anxiety related attendance barriers in collaboration with 5 Mainstream Primary Schools, 1 Mainstream Secondary School, HHTS, and Section 19 Cases.

The council outlined several benefits of the AV1 robots, including:

  • Attainment
  • Attendance
  • Wellbeing
  • Transition of the child using the device

The council is considering several options for implementing the AV1 robots, including short-term rental, long-term rental, and outright purchase. The costs for each option are detailed in the Public Reports Pack as follows:

  • Option 1: Short term rent of 20 AV1: £6,200 (ex VAT) for 3 months
  • Option 2: Long term rent of 20 AV1: £46,395 (excl. VAT) after a 10% discount for a year
  • Option 3: Purchase 20 AV1 (Council ownership): £77,380 (Hardware discount 10% - £6,128)
  • Option 4: Short term rent of 10 AV1: £6,200 (ex VAT) for 3 months
  • Option 5: Long term rent of 10 AV1: £23,031 (excl. VAT) after a 10% discount for a year
  • Option 6: Purchase 10 AV1 (Council ownership): £22,590 (Hardware discount 10% - £3,064)

Many local authorities across the UK have adopted AV1 with positive outcomes, often citing both social value and cost-effectiveness, according to the Public Reports Pack.

According to the Item 6. AV1 Robots - June 25, Staffordshire County Council's 40 AV1s have been implemented within the medical tuition service and virtual school, supporting children with qualifying health needs in both primary and secondary schools. By adopting AV1, the council has been able to increase the number of hours of education absent pupils receive, ensuring they meet the section 19 statutory guidance. This has also supported improved attendance rates, as schools are encouraged to use the B code if a student is attending and participating in a lesson through AV1. Karl Hobson, Head of Attendance & Inclusion, Staffordshire County Council said They offer a positive option for children who are unable to attend school and allow them to keep pace in respect of learning with their peers whilst continuing to allow social interaction. They are good value for money.