The information given here is based around home education in England and Wales. Please check the guidelines as they apply to Scotland, or any other country.
The guidelines for home education are based on Section 7 of 1996 Education Act which states:
“It is the duty of parents to secure education of children of compulsory school age.
The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full-time education suitable—(a) to his age, ability and aptitude, and
(b) to any special educational needs he may have,
either by regular attendance at school or otherwise.“
The key for home educators is that ‘or otherwise’ statement. Education (from the compulsory school age which at the moment is from ages 5 to 18 – with a child beginning primary education in the school year they turn 5) is compulsory but school is not.
Therefore it is the choice of the parent whether or not the child is educated via attending school or some other method the parent(s) choose(s) normally termed home education if the parent chooses to educate outside of any school system.
Here at OTLE many of our teachers have either been home educated or home educators, so we are well placed to be able to offer help and advice in this area. If you are thinking of home educating and need a little help with your decision and how to remove your child from school for example, please feel free to contact us and stay tuned to our webpage for more information.
