Home Education is on the increase, more and more people are finding out about their LEGAL choice to provide an education for their children via a school or otherwise.  

Education IS Compulsory - School is NOT.  

It is very important when researching this subject that you find out as much information as you can, talk to others, join groups, check out the law for the area you live in and ask lots of questions.  What works for one family and suits one family might not suit you and yours,  we are all individuals.

Unfortunately Home Education as we know it is under threat, the government would like to make changes, this might affect your decision right now so please stay updated with the topic and legislation as it changes via our website or the many groups out there standing up for the rights of home educators.

YOU DO NOT  need to be a qualified teacher to educate your child at home

YOU ARE NOT obliged to follow the National Curriculum or take national tests,

YOU ARE  required by law to ensure your child receives full-time education suitable to their age, ability and aptitude any  

special educational needs your child may have must be recognised

YOU DO NOT need special permission from a school or local authority to educate your child at home, but you do need to notify the school via a de-registration

letter in writing if you're taking your child out of school.  You will only need to notify the local authority if you are removing your child from a special school

YOU DO NOT need to observe school hours, days or terms

YOU DO NOT need to have a fixed timetable, nor give formal lessons

THERE IS NO FUNDING directly available from central government for parents who decide to educate their children at home,

some local authorities provide guidance for parents, including free National Curriculum materials

When talking to other home educators you will find there is no ‘wrong’ way of home educating, there are many approaches to take and methods available, nothing is set in stone.  You might start of with a structured approach and end up totally autonomous.

Few LA’s tell us we can home educate and are not aware that we merely delegate our duties to schools.  Our children do not have to take G.C.SE's or SATs, there are alternatives if exams are required.  You do not have to follow the national curriculum or have home visits or show evidence of work again, there are alternatives.  Please research the topic thoroughly, ask questions, meet others and do what is right for you and yours.  

The law regarding Home Education varies upon where you live.

 i.e. The Law for England and Wales is different from that of Scotland or Ireland or Northern Ireland, follow the links to the right for further information in YOUR area.

If it appears to the local authority that a child is not receiving a suitable education, they might serve a school attendance order.