Any Questions?
When considering home education, the first question often asked is “is it legal?” The simple answer is yes. Education is compulsory, going to school is not. The processes and Guidelines do vary though in different parts of the UK . If your child currently attends school, you will need to de-register your child before you can begin to home educate, this is done by a simple letter explaining that you wish to remove your child and you will be taking responsibility for their education. |
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FAQsFrequently asked questions.
Is it legal? YES - it is the parent’s duty to ensure that the child receives a proper education (Education Act 1996, Section 7; Education (Scotland) Act 1980, section 30; Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986, Article 45). Children of all ages can learn at home. Do I have to inform the local authority? NO - if your child has never been registered at a state school (or if you move to an area served by another LA) you are not obliged to notify the LA, although you may do so if you wish. If you are taking your child out of a state school in England or Wales the head teacher must remove the child’s name from the register and inform the LA. Do I have to follow the National Curriculum? NO - the national curriculum does not apply to children who learn at home. Will my child have to take tests at the Key Stages? NO - formal testing is not required. The local authority may ask for information informally. They have no statutory duty to monitor the quality of home education on a routine basis. Can a child with a Statement of Special Educational Needs be educated at home? YES - under S324 of the Education Act 1996 the local authority must make provision for the child’s special educational needs unless the parent has made “suitable arrangements” at home. Scotland and N. Ireland: similar provisions apply. |
Is home education costly?
NO - you don’t need a lot of expensive equipment. In some areas you can borrow equipment from the local education resource centre. Many single parents teach at home successfully on Income Support. Can GCSEs be taken at home? YES - some young people enter as private candidates or arrange for part-time attendance at Further Education College to study for GCSEs. Others use correspondence courses. Aren’t the children deprived of a social life? NO - Home educators meet together regularly for social and educational activities, and the children also attend clubs, classes, sporting and leisure activities in the community. The children mix with people of all ages as well as their peers. It is said that home educated families have a greater and more diverse social life than that of their school companions. Do I have to be a teacher? NO - enthusiasm and commitment are needed, not qualifications. Many parents learn alongside their children, so the whole family benefits from the experience. Can you study science at home? YES - much of today’s science is geared to real-life situations using equipment that is easily available at home. And even the most up-to-date school laboratory can’t split the atom! |
Recommend Reading
While some people look back on school as the 'best days of your life', for others the experience can be unpleasant and gruelling. Learning without School is a practical handbook for parents who want to educate their children at home but are unsure that they have the skills and know-how required to give their child the best education possible.
This book explains what home education is; the advantages and disadvantages of choosing this route; how to begin home educating; what you need to do and how to help your child adjust; and how home education affects children's social skills and friendships. It also covers technical aspects, such as the curriculum, core subjects, exams and timetables. Ross Mountney also considers children with 'learning difficulties' or 'special needs' and how to approach home education differently for this group of children.
Each chapter contains a summary of key points, useful websites, hints and tips and real-life case studies. This practical guide offers indispensible support for parents who are considering home education for their child, and includes a broad philosophy of education that will interest all parents and professionals involved in education and child welfare.
This book explains what home education is; the advantages and disadvantages of choosing this route; how to begin home educating; what you need to do and how to help your child adjust; and how home education affects children's social skills and friendships. It also covers technical aspects, such as the curriculum, core subjects, exams and timetables. Ross Mountney also considers children with 'learning difficulties' or 'special needs' and how to approach home education differently for this group of children.
Each chapter contains a summary of key points, useful websites, hints and tips and real-life case studies. This practical guide offers indispensible support for parents who are considering home education for their child, and includes a broad philosophy of education that will interest all parents and professionals involved in education and child welfare.
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