Some parents choose to educate their children at home, for a variety of reasons. This council, as the local authority (LA) supports the right of parents to educate at home.
The LA has a statutory responsibility to ensure that all children are receiving appropriate education. Elective education, guidance and support is undertaken by the EWS with a support teacher from Central Teaching Services.
What should you do if you want to educate your son or daughter at home?
Parents making this decision should inform the headteacher of the school attended by their child and the school should then inform the LA. If the child has never attended school, parents are asked to inform the LA of their decision to educate at home.
What are parents' responsibilities?
The responsibility of the parent is clearly set out in Section 7 of the Education Act of 1996 which states that:
The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full-time education suitable:
- To his age, ability and aptitude
- To any special educational needs he may have
- Either by regular attendance at school or otherwise
There are no clear guidelines as to what a suitable education might be but it should prepare a child for life in a modern society and allow the child to reach his or her full potential.
Further information
For further information, see Educating children at home, England and Wales (Department for Education and Skills (DfES) 1998) or contact the Education Welfare Services office in South Gloucestershire on 01454 863377.
Claire Bell - principal education welfare officer - tel 01454 863377
Fax: 01454 863263.