For some parents, the traditional school setting may not be the best fit for their child's individual needs and learning style. Thankfully, in the UK (and many other countries), there's a legal option called Elective Home Education (EHE) that parents can utilise to take charge of their child's education at home.
What is Elective Home Education?
EHE is your legal right as a parent to provide a full-time education for your child of compulsory school age, outside of a mainstream school setting. This is supported by Section 7 of the Education Act 1996, which states that a child's education should be suitable "to his age, ability and aptitude", "to any special educational needs" (in England) or "additional learning needs" (in Wales) and can be delivered "either by regular attendance at school or otherwise."
The Flexibility of EHE
One of the most appealing aspects of EHE is the freedom and flexibility it offers. Here are some key points to remember:
No rigid schedule: Forget replicating the traditional school day! You can design a learning environment that suits your child's pace and preferences.
Curriculum by choice: There's no requirement to follow a specific curriculum. You can tailor the learning journey to your child's interests and goals, or even create your own curriculum.
Exams are optional: While traditional exams like GCSEs are an option, there's no obligation to pursue them.
Learning resources: You have the freedom to choose how your child learns. This could involve you as the primary educator, utilising tutors or online resources, participating in learning groups with other home educators, or a combination of these.
Deregistering from school: You can deregister your child from mainstream school at any point.
Financial Considerations
It's important to be aware that currently there's no direct government funding available for home education. As a parent, you'll be responsible for all aspects of learning, including resources, tutoring (if chosen), exams, and group activities. However, with planning and resourcefulness, it's possible to home educate on a budget.
Getting Support
Your local authority (LA) is a valuable resource. They should have information and resources available on their website specifically for home educators. This may include links to newsletters, events, and support groups for connecting with other families who have chosen the EHE path. Additionally, social media groups can offer a wealth of support and guidance from experienced home educators.
Further Exploration
To learn more about EHE and its possibilities, check out these resources:
Educating your child at home - GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/home-education
Home education: get information from your council: https://www.gov.uk/home-schooling-information-council
Elective home education Departmental guidance for parents: [Elective home education: guide for parents]
Education Otherwise: [Education Otherwise - | Education is Compulsory - School is Optional]
Home Educators' Qualifications Association: [HEQA]
Elective Home Education can be a rewarding and enriching experience for both parents and children. By understanding your options and exploring the resources available, you can make an informed decision about whether EHE is the right path for your family.
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