Home education in the UK has seen a significant rise in recent years — especially since the pandemic reshaped how we think about learning. But what exactly does home education mean, why do so many families choose this path, and how do you start if you’re considering it for your child?
In this post, we’ll break down the facts, bust a few myths, and guide you through the process of home educating in the UK.
What Is Home Education?
Home education (sometimes referred to as elective home education) is when a parent or carer chooses to educate their child outside of the mainstream school system. This means they take full responsibility for providing their child with a suitable education — at home, in the community, online, or through a mix of different settings.
Importantly, home education doesn’t have to look like “school at home.” It can be flexible, creative, and deeply personalised to meet a child’s unique needs and interests.
How Many People Are Home Educating in the UK?
Home education in the UK has grown rapidly since the COVID-19 pandemic. As of 2024, it’s estimated that over 125,000 children are being home educated in England alone — more than double the number in 2018. Numbers vary across different local authorities, and the true figure may be even higher as not all families are registered or monitored.
This rise reflects a growing awareness of alternative education options, as well as a shift in priorities for many families.
Why Do People Choose to Home Educate?
Every family’s reasons are unique, but some of the most common motivations include:
- Supporting neurodivergent children who thrive with a personalised pace and approach
- Avoiding or responding to school-based bullying or anxiety
- Prioritising child-led learning, where interests, passions and wellbeing come first
- Wanting more flexibility in daily routines, travel, and family life
- Former teachers who choose to educate their own children after seeing the limitations of the school system
For many families, home education is about creating a more nurturing, empowering, and meaningful learning experience that aligns with their values.
Home Education or Home Schooling – What’s the Difference?
You might hear the terms “home schooling” and “home education” used interchangeably, especially in online communities or media. But in the UK, many families prefer the term home education.
Here’s why:
- “Home schooling” often implies replicating the school day at home, with a rigid timetable and curriculum. In the UK, many members of the home educating community do not use this term and it is defined as ‘doing school at home’.
- “Home education” recognises that learning can happen anywhere — not just at home — and doesn’t have to follow a school-like model. This term is widely used to refer to elective home education in the UK.
While both are understood, “home education” is the term used in UK law and guidance.
Is Home Education Legal in the UK?
Yes, home education is completely legal in the UK.
Under Section 7 of the Education Act 1996, parents are responsible for ensuring their child receives a suitable education — either by regular attendance at school or otherwise (which includes home education).
You do not need a teaching qualification, and there is no requirement to follow the National Curriculum.
How Do I Start Home Educating My Child?
If your child is currently in school, you’ll need to follow a simple process called deregistration. Here’s how:
- Write to the headteacher of your child’s school stating your intention to home educate and request that their name be removed from the school register.
- The school must remove your child from the roll immediately upon receipt of this letter (unless your child attends a special school, in which case permission from the local authority is needed).
- Once deregistered, the local authority will usually contact you to request information about your educational provision, but there is no requirement to register or seek permission to home educate.
It is quite common for schools to request a meeting and some school’s will even attempt to visit your home. As many schools and local authorities do overstep, it’s important to know your rights. Parents do not have to oblige to any meeting or home visit once they have deregistered their child from school, unless your child attends a special school or there are already existing safe guarding concerns.
Do I Need to Follow a Set Curriculum?
Nope! Home education in the UK is not bound by the National Curriculum.
This freedom allows families to tailor education to suit their child’s needs, interests, and learning style. Here are some popular approaches:
- Using a structured curriculum: Many parents choose to follow the National Curriculum or another curriculum because they prefer the structure.
- Designing your own learning plan, based on your child’s passions and goals
- Mixing and matching resources and curriculums depending on the topic or subject
- Unschooling, which is entirely child-led and follows a natural, interest-based approach
- World schooling, where travel and global experiences are central to learning
There is no one-size-fits-all approach. That’s the beauty of home education — it’s about what works for your child and family.
Final Thoughts
Home education in the UK is more than just an alternative to school — it’s a powerful, flexible, and legal choice that allows families to prioritise wellbeing, curiosity, and connection.
Whether you’re just exploring the idea or ready to deregister, know that you’re not alone. A growing number of families are walking this path and finding deep fulfilment along the way.
Have questions or want to connect with others on the journey? Join our mailing list or reach out — we’re here to support you every step of the way.
