Elective Home Education
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More information, advice and guidance for Elective Home Education will be available soon.
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Thinking about home educating
Elective home education (EHE) is a term used to describe a choice by parents who choose to educate their children at home or in another way they desire, instead of sending them to school full-time. This is also known as “home schooling.”
As parents, you are responsible for making sure your child of compulsory school age is properly educated. Despite the term ‘compulsory school age’, your child doesn’t have to attend school to be educated. However, if you live in England, you can ask for a state-funded school place, and the local authority must provide one.
The Department for Education has created an Elective home education: guide for parents which details the rights and responsibilities around educating your child at home.
There is no legislation that deals with home education as a specific approach. However, Section 7 of the Education Act 1996 provides that: The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full-time education suitable:
- to their age, ability and aptitude, and
- to any special educational needs they may have, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities when considering Elective Home Education is essential to ensure the best outcome for your child. For an informal discussion for advice and guidance, please contact the EHE team.
Currently home educating
The Department for Education has created an Elective home education: guide for parents which details the rights and responsibilities around educating your child at home. It is important to understand what your responsibilities are, and the responsibilities of the Local Authority.
If you’re currently home educating your child we recommend you read the All you need to know about home-schooling and elective home education blog by the Department of Education.
If you feel your child has special educational needs and may need an education health and care assessment. You can find out more on the NELC SEND Local Offer.
Whilst your child may not be educated in a school, it is important to be aware that they are still able to access many services to ensure they are supported.
View the list of agencies and services (PDF, 74KB) available to your child.
To arrange an appointment with the EHE team, or for an informal discussion please contact us
Considering applying for a school
To discuss options for a school place, please contact the School Admissions team.