Home Schooling and Home Education

Parents often turn to home education when school is no longer working, and want a workable, supportive solution for their child. At the same time, they want to avoid disputes with schools or local authorities, and the risk of formal action such as attendance orders or increased scrutiny.

What is home schooling and home education

Home schooling, also known as elective home education, is where parents take full responsibility for their child’s education outside the school system. It is a lawful choice in England, provided the education is suitable and full-time from age five.

Families choose home education for different reasons, including anxiety, unmet educational needs, bullying, or a breakdown in the relationship with a school. It can also be a proactive, positive decision where parents want greater flexibility or a more personalised approach.

A “suitable” education does not have to follow the national curriculum or mirror a traditional school structure. Instead, it should be appropriate to your child’s age, ability and needs, and demonstrate that learning is taking place over time in a meaningful way.

Key factors to consider

Home schooling is a significant, ongoing commitment. Parents need to think carefully about time, resources, cost, long-term planning (including qualifications), and how education will be delivered day to day.

Local authorities can make enquiries if they are not satisfied that suitable education is being provided. While engagement is not strictly required, failing to respond can escalate concerns and lead to formal steps, including written notices or further investigation.

Where concerns remain, local authorities have powers to take action. This can include issuing a school attendance order, seeking an education supervision order, or, in rare cases, more serious intervention—making early, specialist advice important to protect your position and respond effectively.

How can we support you?

We advise parents navigating home schooling and home education with clear, expert advice so that you can make informed decisions and respond confidently at every stage.

You may be deciding whether home education is right for your child. We can explain your responsibilities, what suitable education involves, and how to reduce risks, including around exams and qualifications.

If your child is on roll, there are practical steps to manage, including notifying the school and planning timing. We can help you handle communication and consider future options, including returning to school.

Local authorities may make enquiries to check that suitable education is being provided. We support you in responding clearly and managing requests so matters remain proportionate and on track.

We take a pragmatic approach to home education issues, ensuring that you understand your legal responsibilities and the steps available to you.

We act for students and their parents across a wide range of matters, including:

• Advice on whether home education is suitable for your child and circumstances
• Guidance on removing your child from school and managing communications
• Support responding to local authority enquiries, letters and meetings
• Preparing clear evidence of suitable education and progress
• Advice on SEN, EHCP considerations, and specialist provision
• Assistance where schools apply pressure to remove a child (including off-rolling concerns)
• Responding to formal notices and challenging school attendance orders
• Strategic advice where disputes escalate or formal action is threatened

We provide straightforward advice to help you understand your options, take practical next steps, and move towards the best possible outcome for your child.