Can I educate my child at home?
Section 7 of the Education Act 1996 states that:
'The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall
cause him/her to receive efficient full-time education suitable to
their age, ability and any special needs they may have either by
regular attendance at school or otherwise’
What should I consider before choosing home education?
The following point should be taken into consideration when
deciding to choose home education:
- Costs, both financial and to your time and energy
- Is your child happy about the idea of home education?
- Do you have the space to provide a suitable quiet working
area?
- The quality of the education you intend to deliver – do you
have the knowledge and resources to meet your child’s needs?
- The social interaction for your child with other children
- Regular physical exercise
- Additional support for both you and your child
What responsibilities do I have?
You do not have to provide any particular type of education and
can also use tutors to assist with the education of your
child. However, if you intend to employ tutors it is a legal
requirement that they are Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checked
before working with your child. There is no recommended method or
style to the education you provide but it is helpful to plan a
programme of learning, which will also assist you in demonstrating
that your child is receiving an efficient and suitable
education.
How is the attendance welfare service involved?
When you notify your child’s school of your intention to home
educate they will pass this information to the Council who will
send you an information pack about elective home education. An
initial visit/meeting will take place to examine and discuss
provision, with a second visit arranged at a later date. At
this time if the provision is adequate, further regular visits will
be agreed.
Can I still home educate if my child has special educational
needs?
You must get permission from the Council to withdraw your child
from a special school. This rule allows the Council to maintain
their responsibility for children with special educational
needs.
What if they don’t feel my education is sufficient?
If the Council does not consider the provision being made for
your child to be acceptable you will be advised of changes and
improvements you should make. A further appointment with an advisor
will be made. Should the education at this time be unacceptable you
will be asked to return your child to a school of your choice, this
will also be provided in writing. Failure to return your child to a
school will result in the council issuing you with a school
attendance order.