Learning

Learning outside school

Home Education

What you need to know

There are many different reasons for young people to feel that Home Education is right for them. You might feel like you don't fit in at school and this is affecting your learning, or you could be dealing with bullies and want to start afresh by studying at home.

If you are disabled or have learning difficulties you could benefit from the one-to-one supervision your parent or carer can offer.

Whatever the reason, if your parents or carers decide that you would be more suited to Home Education, then legally you can do this. Under UK law it is education that is compulsory, not schooling.

You can find lots more information by typing 'home education' into an internet search engine such as Google.

What you can do

If you are having problems at school it is important to tell a parent, carer, tutor or a friend. They may be able to help you resolve them so you can start enjoying school again
Do your research before making a final decision. Weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of school and Home Education
It might be a good idea to try and talk to people who have already taken the plunge. One way to do this is to go to Yahoo Groups and type 'home education UK' into the search engine. You will find local and national internet support groups
The Education Otherwise Helpline 0845 478 6345 will also be able to point you in the right direction
Home Education is a serious commitment and once you are de-registered from a school you may not be able to get a place at the same school if you change your mind. Your family will also take over the financial responsibility for your education, including educational materials, exam fees etc.