Home education in the news

2 mins read

Thursday 20 June 2024

Tags: disability, special educational needs, home education, elective home education

Figures from a BBC investigation show that home education is at its highest level since the pandemic.

The latest government figures suggest mental health is the biggest reason for the rise in home education. Special educational needs and disabilities is the fourth biggest reason why families have chosen to home educate their child.

Contact’s education helpline is hearing from parents that home education is being suggested to families when their child is struggling at school.

Don’t feel pressured

While elective home education can be a positive step for some children and families, it is not for everyone. It’s important that parents come to a decision themselves and don’t feel pressured into it.

Angie Fenn, Head of Advice at Contact, said: “If you are thinking about home education for your child, it is important to understand the responsibility you are taking on and to explore all other possible options first.

“Your child’s school cannot force you to de-register your child. The school should not put pressure on you to home educate because the school can’t meet your child’s needs or to avoid a permanent exclusion or a penalty for non-attendance.”

By choosing to home educate, you agree to take responsibility for your child’s education, and your local authority will not provide a tutor or financial help. In some areas the local authority has a home education adviser who can provide guidance to parents, but that is not guaranteed.

Further information about home education

We have information about elective home education on our dedicated web pages.