Most parents send their child to school, but you do have the right to educate your child at home. As a parent, you must make sure your child receives a full-time education from the age of 5.
The following are some facts about home education:
- you do not need to be a qualified teacher to educate your child at home
- you do not have to follow the National Curriculum or take national tests, but as a parent you are required by law to make sure your child receives full-time education suitable to their age, ability and aptitude
- any special educational needs your child may have must be recognised
- you do not need special permission to educate your child at home, but you do need to notify the school in writing if you're taking your child out of school and it is helpful to inform the local authority as well
- you must notify the local authority if you are removing your child from a special school
- you do not need to observe school hours, days or terms
- you do not need to have a fixed timetable, nor give formal lessons
- there are no funds directly available from central government for parents who decide to educate their children at home
For more information, visit educating your child at home on GOV.UK.