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Educating your child at home - FAQs
Is it legal to educate my child at home?
Yes. Parents may educate their children at home.
A parent’s duty is set out in Section 7 of the Education Act 1996 as follows:
The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full time education suitable:
- to his age, ability and aptitude;
- to any special educational needs he may have, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise.
It is important to know that parents have a right to educate their children from their own philosophical, spiritual or religious standpoint.
The European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, Article 2 of protocol No 1 states:
"No person shall be denied the right to education. In the exercise of any functions which it assumes in relation to education and teaching, the State shall respect the right of parents to ensure such education and teaching is in conformity with their own religious and philosophical convictions."
What is "efficient", "suitable" and "full time" education?
These words are not defined in the 1996 Education Act. However, there is now a general consensus that education is perceived as being “efficient” if it achieves what it sets out to achieve. It is “suitable” if it prepares the child for life in our society and at the same time enables the child to achieve his/her full potential. The Act does not define full-time education and there is no direct comparison with the timetable and educational arrangements for children taught in schools.
Do I need to be a teacher?
No. You need no formal qualifications.
Some parents provide the education themselves while others choose to educate their children co-operatively with other parents, neighbours and /or tutors. Some use materials and ideas from outside agencies and some of these are accessed on the internet.
What would be seen as a good curriculum?
Whether provided in school or at home a curriculum consists of everything which is done in order to educate the child. Arguably what is taught should cater for the child's physical, intellectual, social, emotional and spiritual development and should be broad, balanced, relevant and differentiated. It should also address any special educational needs which the child has. It is clear that children acquire their learning in many different ways. There is not one form of education; children learn in many different ways, at different times and speeds and from different people. However, it is good to identify your long-term plans and the ways in which you intend to achieve them.
What if my child has Special Educational Needs?
A statement of SEN does not affect the right to home education. However, if the child is on the roll of a special school parents do require the consent of the Local Authority if it is their intention to educate at home. The Local Authority cannot unreasonably withhold its consent. Suitable arrangements for meeting the child’s special needs must be made. This can include alternative provision to that specified in a Statement, provided the child’s special needs are adequately catered for. For the duration of the statement, the LA needs to continue to hold an Annual Review and this includes considering whether the wording of the Statement is still appropriate, and whether the Statement needs to remain in place. Rights of appeal to the SEN Tribunal still apply.
Can I re-register my child at school at a later date?
Yes. If you wish to register your child at school you will need to contact the school and request a place.
To re-register the same process applies but it cannot be guaranteed that there will be a place at the school previously attended.
Our Admissions department will be happy to advise and assist you in this procedure. They can be contacted on 020 8313 4136 .
Educating your child at home - FAQs (continued)
Educating your child at home - FAQs (continued)