Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Legality and Requirements

Is home education legal? Yes, parents in the UK have the right to educate their children at home. You must ensure they receive a "full-time, efficient education" suitable for their age, abilities, and any special needs (Education Act 1996).

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When is compulsory school age? Children must attend school from the term after their 5th birthday until the end of June in the year they turn 16.

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Do I need permission to home educate? No permission is needed, but if your child attends a special needs school arranged by the Local Authority (LA), you’ll need their consent to remove them.

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Understanding Flexi-Schooling

Can my child attend school part-time? Yes, this is called flexi-schooling. It’s legal but requires the headteacher’s approval. Flexi-schooling combines part-time school attendance with home education, meeting full-time education requirements.

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How is flexi-schooling different from part-time education? Part-time education is usually a temporary solution for specific needs like medical issues, while flexi-schooling provides a full-time education split between school and home.

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What is a 'Suitable Education'?

What does a suitable education entail?

• Full-time: Adapted to your child’s needs.

• Efficient: Achieves learning goals.

• Age-appropriate: Matches your child’s development.

• Needs-based: Addresses any special needs.

• Life-skills focused: Prepares your child for independence.

 

Am I required to follow a specific curriculum or have qualifications? No, you are not required to follow the national curriculum, have specific qualifications, provide a formal structure, or set rigid goals.

 

Monitoring Home Education

Will my home education be monitored? Local Authorities can inquire about your home education provision but have no formal monitoring powers. They may request an informal meeting or written report. If there are serious concerns, they might take legal action to ensure suitable education.

 

Financial Support

Is there financial support for home education? No, home education is not funded by the LA. Some local authorities might offer limited exam fee support, and some colleges may provide free courses for home-educated teens.

 

How do I start home educating?

To begin home educating, inform the headteacher of your child’s current school in writing. If your child attends a special needs school arranged by the Local Authority (LA), you will need their consent to remove them. Use available resources and connect with other home-educating families for support.

For more detailed guidance and steps, visit our Getting Started page.

 

Addressing LA Visits

What should I do if the LA wants to visit? LAs may visit to assess education adequacy or child well-being. You have the right to deny entry and can request communication in writing. If the LA officer refuses to leave, contact the police.

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Need Help? Support groups and resources are available to assist you in navigating home education in the UK.