 Many parents are unaware that teaching their children at home is completely legal. In fact, it is becoming an increasingly popular way to school a child. Some parents choose to hire private tutors, while many others teach the child themselves. However, it's extremely important to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of Home schooling, before withdrawing a child from school.
For those parents considering a home education, the teaching-children.org website is a great starting point. It offers pointers on all the legalities surrounding the issue, as well as where to find support in what can sometimes seem an isolating experience. It is believed that at least 20,000 children officially receive Home schooling in the UK, though the real figure is thought to be much higher.
There is no legal requirement to inform the local area authority that the child is learning at home. However, if the authority enquires about the child's welfare, parents must be ready to provide writing a report, asking a council representative to visit their home, or even submitting their child's work.
Parents teaching their child at home don't need to follow the national curriculum. This is a huge advantage to those intending to continue their education in another country. Additionally, parents are also permitted to teach their child in their own time, fitting in with work and other commitments.
One of the biggest concerns about children who are educated at home is the lack of social interaction. Some critics suggest that the lack of exposure to other cultures tends to handicap the child when it comes to university. However, teaching-children.org offers a number of suggestions in how to minimise this problem.
|
