NEC services for local authorities
Whether due to complex SEND needs, medical challenges, school anxiety, exclusion, or periods of disrupted education, NEC offers a calm, stable, expertly supported online learning environment, ensuring no learner is left behind.
Established in 1963, the National Extension College (NEC) has pioneered distance learning for over six decades. Our founder, Michael Young, envisioned accessible education for everyone, leading to NEC’s creation.
With over 60 years of experience in distance learning, NEC specialises in tailored educational pathways that support statutory responsibilities and help young people build confidence, engagement, and academic progress at a pace that meets their unique needs.
Our model provides continuity where in-person provision is not possible and relieves pressure on overstretched services by offering structured and fully monitored learning programmes.
As a not-for-profit organisation, our mission is to provide high-quality education, no matter the student’s background or circumstances.
We have a strong legacy of innovation and inclusivity, and have transformed the lives of thousands of students through flexible, supported learning.
If you are the parent or carer of a child with additional needs, please see our Home Educators page.
How NEC supports local authorities
Our flexible schooling model enables LAs to meet a wide range of statutory duties by providing high-quality, personalised education for young people who require alternative, remote or blended provision.
NEC supports LAs with:
- Young people with SEND who require personalised pacing.
- Students with EHCPs or awaiting assessment.
- Medical tuition cases.
- Pupils experiencing emotionally-based school avoidance.
- Children recovering from trauma or long-term absence.
- Students excluded or unable to attend mainstream.
- In-year moves, awaiting specialist placement or provision.
- Electively Home Educated (EHE) children supported by the LA.
- Students in Alternative Provision or Virtual Schools.
- Post-16 young people completing GCSE/IGCSE/A level.
Our approach is grounded in student-centred, inclusive learning and a deep understanding of the complex needs many young people face.
Book a call with our LEA Team
Contact our team to discuss the creative ways in which NEC can support children and young people who cannot access traditional education.
Curriculum choice for LA-placed students
NEC offers one of the widest ranges of online GCSE, IGCSE and A level subjects in the UK.
Courses are suitable for:
- part-time timetables
- home tuition support
- core subject consolidation
- reintegration pathways
- phased or blended provision.
One young person’s journey with NEC
For Estrella, distance learning with NEC offered a positive opportunity to continue learning in a way that suited her needs and educational goals. Personalised guidance gave her confidence and ensured she always had someone to turn to when she needed direction.
Estrella’s inspiring story highlights the importance of multiple factors including:
- flexibility
- tutor support
- inclusive learning in helping students succeed where traditional schools may not have provided the right environment.
Read Estrella’s story Read more student stories“The one to one tutoring was a very helpful aspect of the courses. NEC was very accommodating, patient and helpful with me.”
Exams, assessment & evidence for LAs
NEC supports all aspects of the examination process, including:
Exam arrangements
- Access to NEC’s network of partner centres.
- Liaison with LA-approved centres.
- Support with Access Arrangements in line with JCQ guidance.
- Management of non-examined assessment (NEA) requirements.
- Pearson Online Approved School status, enabling NEC to support online examinations for selected IGCSEs and International A levels.
- Remote exams.
Reporting
All data provided by NEC can support:
- EHCP annual reviews
- PEP meetings
- reintegration panels
- attendance and engagement monitoring
- AP or medical tuition quality assurance.
Our partners
A selection of organisations that we work with
Why local authorities choose NEC
- 60+ years of distance learning expertise.
- A stable, safe, flexible environment for learners unable to attend school.
- Transparent, ongoing communication with LA case workers.
- Proven outcomes for young people with complex needs.
- SEND-informed course design and specialist tutor support.
- Clear evidence, tracking and reporting for statutory duties.
Flexible schooling – meeting the needs of our students
Download information about how we can help Local Education Authorities and/or students with an EHCP.
Frequently asked questions
Find key details and important information regarding our partnerships with local authorities. You can also read our General FAQs.
NEC provides a flexible alternative to traditional schooling for students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP). Our service includes structured online GCSE and A level courses, expert tutor support, and a dedicated Pastoral Support model. We work closely with Local Authorities (LAs) to ensure our digital learning environment meets the specific statutory requirements and outcomes outlined in a student’s plan.
We simplify SEND monitoring by providing comprehensive progress reports for Annual Reviews. LAs gain access to our NEC Progress Tracker, offering real-time data on student engagement, assignment submission rates, and tutor feedback.
Yes. For students receiving Education Other Than At School (EOTAS), we can supplement our core curriculum with weekly 1-to-1 online teaching sessions. These 60-minute subject-specific sessions are delivered by experts and are designed to build confidence and bridge learning gaps for students who cannot access a physical classroom.
Online learning is often a highly effective solution for students with anxiety, school refusal, or sensory processing needs. NEC’s model removes the social pressure of a classroom, allowing students to study in a safe, familiar environment. Our Pastoral Officer induction ensures a gentle transition into study, focusing on building a routine before academic pressure begins.
As a long-standing distance learning provider, we assist parents and LAs in navigating the exam process. We have a nationwide network of partnership exam centres experienced in accommodating private candidates. We provide guidance on applying for access arrangements (such as extra time or a scribe) to ensure the student is supported during their assessments.
Our Pastoral Support model is specifically designed for students who need more than just academic help. It includes a 30-minute 1-to-1 meeting every fortnight with a Pastoral Officer. These sessions focus on time management, motivation, and mental wellbeing, helping students stay on track with their EHCP outcomes.
Get in touch
Contact our dedicated LEA Team to learn more and begin your partnership with NEC today.
