AV1 Telepresence Robot Service
The Inclusion and Alternative Provision Team (IAPT) can provide an AV1 telepresence robot to support children and young people who are unable to attend school, usually because of a medical condition, including physical or mental health needs.
The AV1 robot helps pupils remain connected to their school community and continue accessing learning during periods of absence. It allows the pupil to participate remotely in lessons and appropriate school activities while reducing the impact of prolonged absence from school.
The service is available to children and young people of statutory school age who attend a Luton school and those living in Luton but attending a school outside of Luton who are eligible for medical tuition.
What is an AV1 Robot?
AV1 is a telepresence robot that sits in the classroom on behalf of a pupil who is unable to attend school.
Using a secure app, the pupil can:
- see and hear what is happening in the classroom
- participate in lessons
- interact with teachers and classmates
- maintain social connections with peers
- stay engaged with school during periods of medical absence
The robot does not record lessons or conversations. The camera and microphone functions are controlled by the pupil using the AV1 app.
Benefits of the AV1 Service
The AV1 robot can help children and young people to:
- maintain a sense of belonging to their school community
- reduce social isolation
- continue accessing learning
- stay connected with teachers and classmates
- support reintegration back into school when they are able to return
- improve confidence and wellbeing during periods of absence
Eligibility criteria
The AV1 service may be considered where a child or young person:
- lives in Luton
- is of statutory school age
- is enrolled at a school or educational setting
- is unable to attend school, usually due to a medical condition, including physical or mental health difficulties
- is expected to be absent from school for a significant period of time
- has appropriate medical evidence supporting the need for alternative arrangements
- would benefit from maintaining a connection with their educational setting through remote participation
Each request is considered individually and the provision of an AV1 robot is subject to assessment and availability.
Medical evidence
Requests for an AV1 robot should be supported by appropriate evidence confirming the child's health needs and explaining how those needs are affecting school attendance.
Evidence may be provided by:
- a GP
- consultant
- paediatrician
- clinical psychologist
- CAMHS clinician
- another relevant health professional
Engagement with CAMHS is not required in order to be considered for support.
How to request an AV1 Robot
Requests should normally be submitted by the child's school in partnership with parents or carers and any relevant professionals involved in supporting the child.
When considering a request, the local authority will review:
- the child's attendance history
- medical evidence
- current educational provision
- the child's individual needs
- whether AV1 is likely to support engagement and reintegration
Responsibilities of the school
Schools receiving an AV1 robot are expected to:
- identify a named member of staff to oversee its use
- ensure staff understand how the robot works
- promote safe and appropriate use of the technology
- support the pupil's inclusion in lessons and school life
- store and charge the robot securely
- notify the local authority of any technical issues or concerns
Expectations for pupils and families
Pupils and families using the AV1 service should:
- use the robot only for educational purposes
- follow the school's acceptable use policies
- respect the privacy of staff and other pupils
- keep login details secure
- report any technical issues promptly
The AV1 robot must not be used to record lessons, conversations, images or video content.
Returning the equipment
The AV1 robot remains the property of the local authority and must be returned when the:
- pupil is able to return to school full time
- support is no longer required
- placement ends
- local authority requests its return
The local authority will provide instructions for the return of equipment.
Further Information
For further information about the AV1 service, or to discuss whether it may be appropriate for a child or young person, please contact:
Email: iapteam@luton.gov.uk
Website: No Isolation
Frequently asked questions
Does a child need to be receiving tuition from IAPT to access an AV1 robot?
Not necessarily. Requests are considered on an individual basis, taking account of the child's circumstances and needs.
Can an AV1 robot be used for mental health difficulties?
Yes. AV1 may be appropriate where a child or young person is unable to attend school due to mental health needs and would benefit from maintaining a connection with their school community.
Does a child need to be under CAMHS?
No. CAMHS involvement is not required. Appropriate medical evidence from a relevant health professional is normally needed to support the request.
Can lessons be recorded through AV1?
No. The AV1 robot does not allow lessons or conversations to be recorded. All users must comply with data protection and safeguarding requirements.