Families turn to home education: A growing trend

In recent years, an increasing number of parents across the UK have made the difficult decision to withdraw their children from traditional schooling and embrace home education. This trend reflects a variety of concerns, ranging from inadequate support for special educational needs to dissatisfaction with the school environment and curriculum. The Guardian hears from parents who have made the challenging decision to homeschool their children, shedding light on the various reasons behind this growing trend

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on The Guardian

Julie, a 47-year-old mother from Northamptonshire, found herself facing a dilemma last year when she decided to take her daughter out of school before the end of Year 3. Her daughter, who is autistic and struggles with sensory difficulties, found the school environment overwhelming, leading to increased anxiety and a decline in attendance. Faced with potential fines and lacking the necessary support from the school, Julie felt she had no choice but to explore home education as an alternative.

Similarly, Matthew, a 45-year-old software developer from Suffolk, removed his son from school in Year 9 due to escalating anxiety attacks triggered by the academic pressure and chaotic school environment. Despite his son’s previously good attendance record, the school refused to authorise any absence for mental health reasons, leaving Matthew with no option but to homeschool.

While the decision to homeschool has brought some relief for these families, it has also come with its own set of challenges. Financial strain, social isolation, and the lack of access to specialised support services are common concerns among parents navigating the world of home education.

Rising trends in home education

The rise in home education is not limited to children with special educational needs. Many parents, like Ellie from Leicestershire, have opted for homeschooling due to dissatisfaction with the traditional school environment. Issues such as bullying, rigid curriculum structures, and a lack of flexibility in learning approaches have prompted families to seek alternative educational pathways for their children.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further fuelled the uptake of home education, with online schooling becoming a popular option for families seeking greater flexibility and autonomy in their children’s education. However, online learning comes with its own set of challenges, including limited social interaction and difficulties in maintaining engagement.

Despite the obstacles, parents remain hopeful about the benefits of home education for their children. The ability to tailor learning experiences to suit individual needs, foster a love for learning, and provide a supportive environment are cited as some of the advantages of homeschooling.

As the number of families turning to homeschooling continues to rise, it underscores the importance for schools to address concerns surrounding special educational needs, mental health support, curriculum relevance, and socialisation within traditional educational settings. By listening to the experiences of these parents, schools can work towards fostering inclusive, supportive environments that meet the diverse needs of all students.