Elective home education is education provided other than at school, usually by parents teaching their own children at home.
As parents you have the responsibility to ensure that your child receives an appropriate education. Most parents send their children to school, but you do have the right to arrange for children to be educated at home instead of school if you choose to do so.
If you are considering educating your child at home as a way to avoid issues in school, such as relationship difficulties or attendance and exclusion issues, then the Education Welfare Service can offer you guidance and support to resolve these without having to resort to home education.
Deciding to educate your child at home is a major undertaking and there are many factors to consider. Under UK law you must ensure that:
- If you have a school age child he/she is educated
- The education you provide is full-time and effective
- The education you provide is appropriate to your child’s age, ability and aptitude
- If your child has special educational needs, you cater for these needs
Things to consider...
Home education requires a major commitment of time. School is not just about formal lessons, children also learn social and other skills. It is difficult for one person to provide a broad education. There is no financial help from Warrington Borough Council.
Taking your child out of school
If you are considering educating your child at home you may find it helpful to discuss this with your headteacher. If you have decided that this is in your child’s best interest and that you are able to provide an appropriate education for them you will need to put this writing to the headteacher.
Children with additional needs
If your child is placed at a Special School, you can only withdraw your child from formal schooling following consultation with the council.
The council’s role
The council has a responsibility to ensure that your child is receiving adequate and appropriate education.
Request:
- Visit at least once a year to review your child’s education
- Provide information on the Connexions Service for children aged 15 years
- Offer your child a place should you wish to re-admit your child into formal schooling or at normal transition points, e.g.transfer to secondary school
The council aims to work in partnership with families who choose to home educate their children. If you would like to share good practice then please contact us on 01925 442933.
Contact:
Melissa Young
Tuition Quality Consultant
Children and Young People's Services
Warrington Borough Council
3rd Floor Quattro
Buttermarket Street
Warrington
WA1 2NJ
Tel: 01925 442933