If you’ve been asked by your Local Authority (LA) to submit an Education Provision Report, know that this is a routine part of overseeing alternative education, including home education and flexi-schooling.
Requests can vary widely. Some are straightforward, while others less clear or overly formal. Understanding what the LA is looking for can help you respond confidently.
What Are Local Authorities Allowed to Ask?
By law, your LA is allowed to make informal enquiries to ensure your child or young person is receiving a suitable education. What “suitable” means is not strictly defined, but in general, they’ll want to see that your child is:
- Being educated full-time (typically equivalent to the hours of a school week, though it doesn’t need to be structured in the same way)
- Receiving an education suitable to their age, ability, and any special educational needs
- Making progress, in a way that makes sense for them
Basically, Local Authorities have a legal duty to ensure every child receives some form of education until they turn 18. This means they need to assess and demonstrate that they are fulfilling this responsibility.
What Do Local Authorities Commonly Ask For?
The specifics of LA requests vary by area, but here are the most common things they’ll ask for:
1. A Written Report
This is the standard request: a description of what your child is learning, how you’re facilitating that learning, and how things are going overall.
2. Examples of Work
Some Local Authorities ask for samples — like scanned copies, photos, or summaries of recent activities — to see real evidence of what your child is learning and doing, helping to show that your reports reflect their actual experiences.
3. A Broad Curriculum Overview
You’re not expected to follow the National Curriculum, but they may ask you to show that your child is accessing a range of subjects or experiences, such as:
- Literacy and numeracy
- Science or nature study
- Creative arts
- Physical activity
- Life skills or personal development
- Social interaction opportunities (where relevant)
They don’t need to see evidence of all these every day — just enough to show your child is receiving a broad and balanced education.
4. A Typical Week or Learning Routine
You might be asked to describe how your week is structured (if it is at all). Even if you’re unschooling or child-led, an example of how learning arises in your home is helpful to include.
Commonly Confusing Requests
Some Local Authority requests can be worded in ways that feel unclear or open to interpretation. Here are a few examples we’ve seen, along with ideas for how you might understand and respond to them:
“We require a statement of educational philosophy and aims.”
This basically means: How do you approach your child’s learning? What’s important to you?
→ A simple paragraph sharing your values and how your child learns best is usually what they’re looking for.
“We need to assess progress using measurable outcomes.”
This one can feel a bit daunting. But it’s just about showing your child is making steady progress.
→ You don’t need test results, but you do need to show something. Talk about things your child has learned recently or milestones they’ve reached. Sharing examples like projects or new skills can really help.
“Please send evidence that your child is meeting age-related expectations.”
This is difficult because every child learns at their own pace, especially outside school.
→ It’s fine to explain that your child is learning in their own way and time. Just be ready to show what they’re working on with some clear examples. Saying “they’re doing fine” alone won’t be enough—the LA wants to see thought and intention behind their learning.
To Summarise:
Overall, Local Authorities want reassurance that:
- Your child or young person is receiving an education
- Their education is broadly balanced and age-appropriate
- There is evidence that learning is happening
- You’re engaged and responsive as a parent or carer
How We Can Help
If you’d like support, Alight offers a personalised Education Provision Report writing service. When you purchase, you’ll receive a short form to complete, with the option to let us know if your Local Authority has asked for anything specific. This helps us tailor your report to reflect both your educational approach and your LA’s expectations.Please visit our website to learn more.