Frequently Asked Questions

The home education journey is very personal to each family. There is no prescribed or fixed structure that you must adhere to. You just need to find a way of learning that works for you and your child, in whatever form that may take. Some have a fixed timetable incorporating core subjects, which they follow at home; others prescribe to child led learning as a part of every day life, with no formal structure at all; and there are a whole number of families that work around a combination of the two, with other sources of learning, such as groups and tutors added to the mix. You will find your path.

There are so many socialisation opportunities within the home ed community and groups outside of it also. Find local groups on social media, discover what's going on in your local area and reach out to other home educating parents. Home educating is a far more natural socialising opportunity that can be found in conventional school settings, as children can mix with people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, rather than be forced to primarily engage with a fixed group of their age-defined peers. There are also community based groups such as Rainbows, Brownies, Scouts, Cadets, etc. From personal experience, it won't be a lack of social opportunities that's the problem, it will be finding time to fit them all in!

This is definitely still an option, even if both parents work or you are a single parent who works. It is true that it takes a village to raise a child and a lot of parents enlist help from extended family and friends to fulfil educational and social needs. Learning does not have to exist within a 'school day' framework and can be done just as easily in the evenings and at weekends to fit around working hours. There are also childminders who specialise in looking after home educated children and drop off sessions at alternative education provisions. Building a good network with other home educating parents is also invaluable.

It is so easy to doubt yourself and worry that you are not providing the best for your child. But, recognising that home education would be the best option for your child, whether due to personal preference, your belief system, learning style, neurodiversity, mental health needs or a whole range of other factors, is an important first step in ensuring that your child thrives. There are a huge range of online resources to suit all budgets, access to group learning and private tutors, all of which are there to help you provide a suitable level of education for your child, that meets their own personal needs. Links to some of these resources can be found on the other pages of this site. Also, don't forget that you are already teaching them important lessons on a daily basis, including self care, personal value, practical life skills and so much more. All of these contribute to them becoming a well rounded human being, so try not to be so harsh on yourself.