If you are contacted by your local authority regarding your proposed or actual home education arrangements, you should be prepared to offer information about what you intend to do/are doing to provide education (this might include participation in formal or informal activities, outings and visits, arts and crafts, music, use of particular resources etc).

If, like many parents, you feel daunted by the prospect of responding to local authority enquiries, you will probably find it helpful to do some background research on home education. Seek out books and articles on the subject, talk to practising home educators and join local groups or e-mail support lists, all of which should help you focus your ideas, develop your own educational philosophy and boost your confidence.

You should remember (and perhaps also remind the local authority) that, as a parent, you are an expert on your child’s needs and can offer total commitment and individual attention – you are not after all controlling a crowd of 30+ strangers! Also, there is a growing number of home educators throughout Scotland whose combined experience you can draw upon for support.

How do I create a plan of provision?