Home education, also known as home schooling, is a perfectly legal option for parents in the UK who wish to take charge of their child’s education without sending them to a traditional school. Whether you’re new to the concept or considering it as an alternative, here’s a clear and friendly guide to help you navigate this exciting journey.
1. What Is Home Education?
Home education simply means that parents take responsibility for their child’s learning instead of enrolling them in a school. This approach allows for a tailored education that meets your child’s specific needs, interests, and pace.
2. Is Home Education Legal?
Yes, home education is completely legal in the UK. Parents have the right to decide how their child receives an education, as long as it is suitable for their age, ability, and any special educational needs (SEN) they may have.
3. Do I Need Permission?
If your child has never been enrolled in school, you don’t need to notify anyone. However, if your child is already attending a school, you must write to the headteacher to formally deregister them. Once notified, the school will inform the local authority (LA).
For children in a special school, you’ll need the local authority’s approval to deregister.
4. What Are My Responsibilities?
As a home-educating parent, you’re responsible for providing a full-time education that is appropriate for your child. This doesn’t mean following the National Curriculum, but you’ll need to ensure that your child is learning effectively.
There’s no legal requirement to stick to school hours or terms, giving you the freedom to choose a schedule that works best for your family.
5. Do I Need to Follow the National Curriculum?
No, home education allows for flexibility. You can design a curriculum that suits your child’s learning style, interests, and future goals. However, some parents choose to loosely align with the National Curriculum, especially if they plan for their child to take formal qualifications like GCSEs or A-Levels or to possible attend a school in later years.
6. Will My Child Be Monitored?
The local authority may make informal enquiries to ensure your child is receiving a suitable education. They may ask for evidence of learning, which could include:
- Samples of work
- Details of your learning plan
- A meeting with you and your child (you can choose whether to meet at home or elsewhere)
Remember, you are not obligated to allow home visits.
7. What About Socialisation?
Home education doesn’t mean your child will miss out on social interactions. Many families join home education groups, attend workshops, or arrange playdates and activities to help their children socialise. Sports clubs, libraries, and community centres also offer great opportunities for your child to make friends.
8. Exams and Qualifications
While home-educated children aren’t required to take exams, many do choose to sit GCSEs, A-Levels, or other qualifications. You’ll need to arrange for your child to take these as a private candidate at an exam centre. Be aware of costs and registration deadlines when planning.
9. Financial Support
Unfortunately, there is no financial support provided for home education. You’ll need to cover the costs of learning materials, resources, and any exams.
10. Where to Get Help
There are plenty of resources and support networks available for home-educating families, including:
- Local home education groups
- Online forums and communities
- Educational charities and organisations
You can also reach out to the local authority for guidance or look for private tutors and of course Online Schools like ours, if you need extra help with specific subjects or wish for structured programme to support home learning.
