The short answer is Yes.
In the UK, education is compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 18. However, as a parent, you have the right to choose how your child is educated. This means you can choose to educate your child at home, also known as homeschooling or home educating, instead of sending them to school.
However, there are some legal requirements that parents must adhere to when home-schooling their children.
If you decide to remove your child from school, you must inform the school in writing. This is a legal requirement. It’s essential to do this to ensure that the school is aware of your decision and can update their records accordingly. In Scotland, you will need to seek the local authority’s consent before withdrawing your child from school.
If your child has SEN and attends a special school, you must get the council’s permission to educate them at home. You do not need the council’s permission if your child attends a mainstream school, even if they have an education, health and care (EHC) plan.
Local authorities have a duty to intervene if they believe that a child is not receiving a suitable education, including children who are being home-schooled. However, they do not have the authority to dictate the content or methods of home-schooling.
There is no legal requirement to register as a home educator in England, but as a parent, you have a legal duty to ensure that your child receives a suitable education. This education must be relevant and appropriate for your child’s age, ability and aptitude.
If your child has special educational needs (SEN), you are still responsible for ensuring they receive a suitable education, which may involve accessing additional support services or resources.
Home education requires commitment and planning. You will need to research different approaches to home education, curriculum options, and resources available. Various home education methods include structured curriculum-based learning, unschooling and interest-led learning. Explore what works best for your child and family.
You may choose to enlist the help of tutors. Teachers To Your Home has considerable experience providing qualified teachers to support home education.
While there is no obligation to follow the National Curriculum when homeschooling, you may choose to do so, especially if you plan for your child to rejoin school or access university.
There is no formal requirement for standardized testing or assessment, but parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s progress and ensure that they are making satisfactory educational progress. As a home-schooling parent, you provide or facilitate access to your children’s academic resources, materials, and learning opportunities.
While not a legal requirement, you should keep records of your child’s educational progress, including samples of work, learning goals, and any assessments or evaluations conducted.
While home education offers flexibility and personalised learning opportunities, it’s essential to maintain a balanced approach. Ensure your child has opportunities for socialising, extracurricular activities, and access to resources beyond the home environment. This may include participating in local home-schooling groups, extracurricular activities, sports clubs, and community events.
Joining local home education support groups or online communities can provide valuable resources, advice, and networking opportunities for you and your child. These groups can offer support, share experiences, and provide guidance on navigating the home education journey.
Keep an open mind about the possibility of transitioning your child back to school if circumstances change or if it aligns with your child’s educational goals and preferences.
If you encounter challenges or have questions about home education, don’t hesitate to seek advice from educational professionals, such as teachers, educational psychologists, or home education consultants.
Another guide you may want to read:
Facts about homeschooling in the UK. A guide for parents
