More families in the UK are choosing to educate their children at home. Some choose it from the start; others turn to it when school is not working for their child. Either way, home education brings freedom and responsibility, and many families find that a qualified teacher for some subjects makes a real difference.
What home education means
In the UK, parents are responsible for making sure their child receives a suitable, full-time education, and they can choose to provide it at home. There is no set timetable or national curriculum to follow. Rules on removing a child from school and on local authority contact vary between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so check your local authority's guidance first.
Where parents often want support
- Subjects they feel less confident teaching, often maths and the sciences at secondary level.
- Structure and accountability, so learning keeps moving.
- Exam preparation for GCSEs and A-Levels.
- Children with SEND, who may need a teacher experienced in adapting lessons.
Taking exams as a home-educated student
Home-educated students can sit GCSEs and A-Levels as private candidates at an exam centre. Families arrange the entry and fees with the centre, so it is worth contacting centres early. A teacher can prepare your child for the course content and the exams themselves.
How online lessons fit in
Online lessons can happen during the school day, at a pace that suits your child, with a specialist for each subject. Look for qualified teachers, proper safeguarding checks and notes after every lesson, so you always know what has been covered.
You can find qualified online teachers for homeschooling families here.