Flexi-schooling is a unique educational arrangement that combines elements of home education and traditional schooling. By partnering with a school, parents can create a customised learning plan that suits their child's individual needs and the family's lifestyle.
What is Flexi-Schooling?
Flexi-schooling allows parents to arrange for their child to attend school part-time while receiving the remainder of their education at home. This flexible approach offers a middle ground between full-time home education and traditional schooling.
Key Considerations for Flexi-Schooling
Parental Responsibility: Parents remain ultimately responsible for their child's education, even when a flexi-schooling arrangement is in place.
Legal Option: Flexi-schooling is a legal option provided it has been agreed by the child's school. Once this agreement has been formalised, the days on which the child is not in attendance at school will be marked as 'authorised' absences.
School Approval: Not all schools are willing to accommodate flexi-schooling requests. It's essential to discuss your child's needs with the school and seek their approval.
Curriculum Compliance: While home education allows for more flexibility in curriculum choices, children attending school must adhere to the school's curriculum and assessment requirements.
Special Educational Needs (SEN): If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), any decision to flexi-school must be made in collaboration with the local authority.
SATS and GCSEs: Children registered at a school, even under a flexi-schooling arrangement, are typically required to sit SATS and GCSE exams.
Local Authority Guidelines: Local authorities may have specific guidelines and procedures for flexi-schooling, so it's advisable to consult with them.
Benefits of Flexi-Schooling
Tailored Learning: Flexi-schooling allows for a more personalized approach to education, catering to individual learning styles and interests.
Work-Life Balance: Parents can balance work commitments with childcare responsibilities.
Family Time: Flexi-schooling can provide more opportunities for family bonding and shared experiences.
Reduced Stress: For some children, a less structured environment may reduce stress and anxiety.
Access to Specialist Resources: Children can benefit from specialised tuition or resources that may not be available at home.
Before Considering Flexi-Schooling
Consult with the School: Discuss your child's needs and educational goals with the school to determine if flexi-schooling is a viable option. Some schools will see Flexi-schooling as a temporary measure and believe it will be a gradual phased back to school process.
Research Local Authority Guidelines: Familiarise yourself with the specific regulations and procedures in your area.
Develop a Comprehensive Home Education Plan: You could create a structured learning plan that covers all essential subjects.
Consider Your Child's Needs and Personality: Ensure that flexi-schooling aligns with your child's learning style and emotional well-being.
For more information:
You can also go onto the website for your own Local Authority (LA) for more information in your area.
By carefully considering these factors and working closely with your child's school, you can create a successful flexi-schooling arrangement that benefits your child's education and overall development.
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