What is elective home education?

Parents and carers have a legal responsibility to make sure their children receive an education. They may choose to educate at home rather than at school.

Home education occurs when parents choose to assume the responsibility for planning, implementing and evaluating their child's learning, in place of a school.

It is a serious, long-term commitment. Parents who choose to educate their children at home must assume full financial responsibility, including bearing the cost of any public examinations.

Home education is a legal educational option alongside education provided in schools. In Newham there are approximately 80 families who are registered as educating at home.

The Education Act 1996 states that: 'The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full-time education suitable:
a) to his age, ability and aptitude; and
b) to any special educational needs he may have, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise.'

The Education Act 1996 also places a legal duty on the local authority to take action where it appears that education is 'not efficient and suitable'.