Evidence of demand

Gathering evidence of demand is one of the most important, and time consuming, elements of opening the school. You’ll need to gather evidence that demonstrates that your school will be full.

From this page you can download for Special, AP, Mainstream and 16-19 schools:

  • Guides on how to gather evidence of demand;
  • Sample surveys to collect your evidence; and
  • If relevant, sample letters from commissioners.

It is very important that you are clear about what you need to collect, and how you need to present this in your application. The guidance below will explain this so please do ensure you read it carefully. 

Mainstream and 16-19 free schools downloads

Gathering evidence of demand - mainstream free schools

Sample school support survey - mainstream free schools

Alternative provision free schools downloads

Sample demand letter - altenative provision free schools

Gathering Evidence of Demand - AP Free Schools

If your AP will include a 16-19 element, please see the Mainstream and 16-19 downloads above for guidance about evidence of demand. 

Special free schools downloads

Gathering evidence of demand - special free schools

Sample parental support survey - special free schools

Sample demand letter - special free schools

Accepting non-statemented children - special free schools