What is home education?

Parents have a legal option to educate their child(ren) at home rather than attend school, even if your child has an education health and care plan (EHCP). Put simply the law says that parents of school age children have to provide a full-time education that meets your child’s age, ability and any special educational need they have. Most parents choose a school to do this, but you don’t have to.

You don’t need any formal qualifications; anyone can home educate. It does need time, enjoyment of learning together and the ability to meet all costs involved.

The decision to home educate is a parental choice and cannot be influenced by a school. A school should not be encouraging you to do so, this is called ‘off rolling’ and is not allowed.