All parents have a duty to make sure that their children receive an efficient, full time education suitable to their age, ability and aptitude, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise (under section 7 of the Education Act 1996).
Before making a final decision you should talk to your child(ren)’s school in the first instance or the Education Welfare Service if the decision to educate your child(ren) at home has been made because -
- of a disagreement with a teacher
- a school issue has not been resolved
- you feel under any pressure to home educate
Before making a decision we recommend you -
- consider all the implications carefully as home educating is a big responsibility that requires a considerable commitment of time and energy
- plan what you intend to do with your child(ren) before making a decision and consider the financial costs involved
- are aware that your child(ren) may miss out on the social side of school, especially contact with friends and joint activities
- think about the financial implications, there are no grants available to help with home education and you are responsible for all costs of -
- materials
- equipment
- exams
- consider that once you have removed your child(ren) from the school roll they cannot be readmitted without reapplying through School Admissions. This process can take some time and it may not be possible for your child(ren) to be placed at a school of their choice.
If after considering the above you do decide to home educate your child(ren) you must inform your child(ren)’s head teacher in writing. The school then pass this onto the Education Welfare Service and delete your child’s name from the School Register. If you do not hear anything from us within two weeks of sending your letter in to the Headteacher of your child's school, please contact us to check your letter has been received.
A Local Authority Officer will contact you to arrange an initial home visit to discuss any questions you may have. Parents are not obliged to accept a home visit but they are expected to provide us with evidence that they are providing a suitable education.
