The Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling in the UK for 2025

Homeschooling is on the rise in the UK, with 111,700 children receiving elective home education in autumn 2024—a 21.4% increase from the previous year (The Times, 2024).

This surge reflects growing concerns about the quality of state education and the widening gap between state and private schools (in terms of educational outcomes). Research from the Sutton Trust shows that private school students are much more likely to land top jobs in both the government and the private sector (Sutton Trust, 2019). However, with private schooling costs exceeding £15,000 annually and the new 20% VAT on private school fees effective January, many families are now turning to homeschooling as a flexible, affordable alternative.

This guide will cover everything you need to know to get started with homeschooling, from legal requirements to practical tips and inspiring success stories.

Is homeschooling the right choice for your family? Let’s find out!

What Is Homeschooling?

Homeschooling, also known as elective home education (EHE), is when parents or guardians choose to educate their children at home rather than sending them to a traditional school. In the UK, parents have the legal right to provide an education that is suitable for their child’s age, ability, and any special educational needs, as outlined in the Education Act 1996.

How Is It Different from Traditional Schooling?

Unlike traditional schooling, homeschooling offers:

• Flexibility: Parents can tailor the curriculum, schedule, and pace of learning to suit their child’s needs.

• Personalisation: Lessons can be customised to align with the child’s learning style and interests.

• Freedom from Testing: Homeschooled children do not have to follow the National Curriculum or participate in SATs, though many families still prepare for GCSEs and A-Levels.

Common Myths About Homeschooling

Despite its growing popularity, several misconceptions about homeschooling persist:

1. “Homeschooled children lack social skills.”

• Reality: Homeschooled children often participate in local groups, sports teams, and extracurricular activities, developing strong social skills.

2. “Parents need to be qualified teachers to homeschool.”

• Reality: There is no requirement for parents to hold teaching qualifications. Many use online learning platforms, tutors, and community resources for support.

3. “Homeschooling is isolating for families.”

• Reality: Homeschooling communities, online networks, and co-op groups allow families to connect and collaborate.

Why Are More Parents Opting for Homeschooling?

Recent trends show parents are increasingly choosing homeschooling due to:

• Dissatisfaction with mainstream education quality.

• Financial barriers to private schooling.

• A desire to address special educational needs or provide a safer learning environment.

Homeschooling empowers parents to create a supportive, individualised learning experience, ensuring their children thrive both academically and personally.

Legal Requirements for Homeschooling in the UK

Homeschooling is entirely legal in the UK, but parents must ensure they follow the rules and responsibilities outlined in the Education Act 1996. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you need to know to comply with UK law:

Your Legal Rights as a Parent

In the UK, parents are responsible for ensuring their child receives a “full-time education suitable to their age, ability, aptitude, and any special educational needs.” This can be done through:

• School attendance

• Elective Home Education (EHE)

You do not need to follow the National Curriculum or have any teaching qualifications to homeschool your child.

Deregistering Your Child from School

If your child is already enrolled in a school, you must:

1. Write a formal letter to the headteacher informing them of your intention to withdraw your child for home education.

2. The school is required to inform the local authority but cannot refuse your request.

Important Note: If your child attends a special school due to an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), you will need the local authority’s consent before deregistering.

Notifying the Local Authority

If your child has never attended school, there is no legal obligation to inform the local authority that you are homeschooling. However, it is recommended to do so voluntarily, as some authorities like to maintain a record of homeschooled children for support and monitoring.

What Local Authorities Can and Cannot Do

Local authorities may contact you to ensure that your child is receiving an adequate education. This typically involves:

• Sending a letter or requesting information about your homeschooling approach.

• Offering a meeting to discuss your child’s education (this is optional, and you can provide written evidence instead).

However:

• Local authorities cannot insist on home visits unless there are safeguarding concerns.

• They cannot force you to follow the National Curriculum.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

If your child has special educational needs, you can still homeschool. It’s essential to ensure that their education remains appropriate and supportive of their needs. Local authorities may review your plans, particularly if an EHCP is in place.

Key Legal Takeaways

• Homeschooling is a legal and valid alternative to school in the UK.

• Inform the school in writing if deregistering your child.

• Cooperate with local authorities when necessary but know your rights.

• You are not required to replicate the school system; education at home can be flexible and tailored to your child.

For more details on homeschooling laws, you can refer to the official UK government guidance on Elective Home Education.

Pros and Cons of Homeschooling

Homeschooling has both advantages and challenges. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision. Let’s look at some of the pros and cons.

Benefits of Homeschooling

Homeschooling offers families a unique opportunity to create a personalised, flexible, and enriching educational experience for their children. Below are some key benefits that make homeschooling an increasingly popular choice in the UK:

1. Tailored Education

Homeschooling allows parents to adapt the curriculum, teaching methods, and pace of learning to suit their child’s:

• Strengths and weaknesses: Focus on areas where they excel or need more support.

• Learning style: Use interactive, visual, or hands-on approaches that work best for your child.

• Interests: Integrate subjects or topics that spark curiosity and passion, from coding to creative writing.

2. Flexible Learning Schedule

Parents are not bound by traditional school hours, terms, or rigid timetables. This flexibility allows for:

• Family travel and field trips: Learn through real-world experiences and cultural exploration.

• Adjustable days: Accommodate family needs, medical appointments, or unique circumstances.

• Better work-life balance for families where parents work remotely or non-traditional hours.

3. A Safer, Supportive Environment

For some families, homeschooling provides an alternative to challenges such as bullying, overcrowded classrooms, or mental health pressures often faced in mainstream schools.

• Children learn in a nurturing, low-stress environment.

• Parents can prioritise emotional well-being alongside academics.

4. Stronger Family Bonds

Homeschooling offers families more time together, strengthening relationships and fostering meaningful connections. Parents gain a deeper understanding of their child’s needs, learning styles, and aspirations.

5. Focus on Life Skills and Holistic Development

Homeschooling goes beyond academics, enabling parents to incorporate:

• Life skills: Financial literacy, cooking, time management, and critical thinking.

• Real-world learning: Practical activities such as visiting museums, farms, and historical sites.

• Extracurricular opportunities: More time for sports, arts, music, coding, and other hobbies.

6. Addressing Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Homeschooling provides an excellent opportunity for children with SEN or specific learning differences, as it allows for:

• Individualised support without classroom distractions.

• Tailored strategies and resources to meet their unique needs.

• Reduced pressure from traditional assessments and expectations.

7. Academic Excellence and Future Preparedness

Studies suggest that homeschooled students often perform well academically, with many achieving excellent results in GCSEs and A-Levels. The flexibility of homeschooling allows children to:

• Spend more time on subjects they excel in.

• Learn at their own pace without classroom restrictions.

• Prepare for higher education, apprenticeships, or vocational pathways effectively.

8. Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to private school tuition, homeschooling is significantly more affordable. Families can use cost-effective learning platforms like MyEdSpace, free online resources, and community programs to deliver high-quality education without the financial strain.

Challenges of Homeschooling and How to Overcome Them

While homeschooling offers many benefits, it’s not without its challenges. Parents often face concerns about socialisation, time management, and maintaining academic standards. Here, we address the most common challenges and offer practical solutions to help you succeed.

1. Socialisation Concerns

The Challenge:
Parents worry that homeschooling may limit their child’s opportunities to interact with peers and develop social skills.

How to Overcome It:

• Join homeschooling groups and co-ops: Many local and online groups organise group learning sessions, sports, and extracurricular activities.

• Encourage extracurricular involvement: Enroll your child in sports teams, drama clubs, music lessons, or community programs.

• Schedule regular meetups: Organise playdates or field trips with other homeschooling families.

• Engage in volunteer work: It’s a great way for children to interact with people of all ages and build social awareness.

2. Time Management for Parents

The Challenge:
Balancing homeschooling with work, household responsibilities, and personal time can feel overwhelming.

How to Overcome It:

• Create a structured but flexible routine: Set realistic daily and weekly schedules for lessons, breaks, and family activities.

• Use online platforms: Platforms like Twinkl provide ready-to-use learning materials, saving parents time on lesson planning.

• Delegate tasks: Involve your children in age-appropriate chores to teach responsibility and ease your workload.

• Incorporate independent learning: Encourage older children to work independently on projects that they feel passionate about.

3. Lack of Confidence in Teaching Children at Home

The Challenge:
Many parents feel unqualified to teach certain subjects, particularly at higher levels.

How to Overcome It:

• Utilise online learning platforms: MyEdSpace provides expert-led lessons in core subjects like Maths, English, and Science for KS2, KS3, GCSE and A-Level students.

• Follow a structured curriculum: Use National Curriculum-aligned resources like ours to ensure academic goals are met.

• Leverage free resources: Websites like BBC Bitesize and educational apps like Quizlet can provide added support.

4. Avoiding Burnout (For Parents and Children)

The Challenge:
Homeschooling can sometimes feel exhausting for both parents and children, leading to burnout.

How to Overcome It:

• Incorporate breaks and downtime: Schedule regular breaks to avoid fatigue and maintain focus.

• Adopt a flexible mindset: It’s okay to adjust schedules or take a day off when needed.

• Mix learning methods: Combine online lessons, hands-on activities, and real-world learning to keep education engaging.

• Take care of yourself: Ensure you, as a parent, prioritise self-care to stay motivated and energised.

How to Start Homeschooling: A Step-by-Step Guide

Starting your homeschooling journey might seem overwhelming, but breaking it into manageable steps makes the process much simpler. Follow this guide to get started confidently and effectively.

Step 1: Decide Why You’re Homeschooling

Before you begin, clarify your reasons for homeschooling:

• Are you dissatisfied with traditional education?

• Do you want to provide a personalised curriculum?

• Is your child’s well-being or special needs a concern?

Having clear goals will help shape your homeschooling approach and keep you motivated throughout the journey.

Step 2: Understand the Legal Requirements

• If your child is currently in school, write to the headteacher to deregister them.

• Familiarise yourself with your local authority’s expectations regarding elective home education (EHE).

• Visit the official UK government site for guidelines on home education.

Step 3: Choose a Homeschooling Style

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach to homeschooling. Choose a style that suits your child’s needs and your family’s goals:

• Structured: A traditional school-at-home approach with timetabled lessons.

• Unschooling: Child-led learning based on their interests and natural curiosity.

• Eclectic: A mix of methods combining structured learning with flexible, project-based activities.

• Online Learning: Use digital platforms like MyEdSpace to provide structured lessons and subject-specific support.

Step 4: Plan Your Curriculum

While homeschooling does not require you to follow the National Curriculum, it can provide a useful foundation, particularly if your child plans to take GCSEs or A-Levels.

• Core Subjects: Prioritise English, Maths, and Science.

• Additional Subjects: Include History, Geography, Arts, Coding, and Languages.

• Life Skills: Incorporate skills like cooking, budgeting, and critical thinking.

Helpful Tip: MyEdSpace offers curriculum-aligned, interactive learning resources tailored for students aged 9 and upwards.

Step 5: Gather Resources and Tools

Create a toolbox of resources to support your child’s learning:

• Online Learning Platforms: Structured lessons for core subjects.

• Books and Workbooks: Libraries and second-hand stores are excellent, budget-friendly options.

• Educational Apps and Websites: BBC Bitesize, Duolingo, Khan Academy, and more.

• Local Resources: Museums, parks, and historical sites for real-world learning.

Step 6: Create a Productive Learning Environment

Set up a dedicated learning space that encourages focus and creativity:

• Keep it simple: A desk, a quiet corner, and good lighting.

• Stock essentials: Books, stationery, and digital devices.

• Stay organised: Use folders, schedules, and digital planners to track progress.

Step 7: Connect with the Homeschooling Community

You don’t have to do this alone! Connecting with other homeschooling families provides invaluable support and opportunities for your child to socialise.

• Join local homeschooling groups and co-ops.

• Attend workshops, events, or online meetups.

• Engage in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and clubs.

Step 8: Start Slow and Adjust

Begin with a light schedule to see what works best for your family. Remember:

• Flexibility is key—adapt the routine and methods based on your child’s progress and feedback.

• Don’t stress about perfection; homeschooling is about creating a positive and effective learning environment.

Best Homeschooling Programs in the UK

When choosing a homeschooling program, find one with structure, flexibility, and quality content. Here are some top options:

Homeschooling Resources in the UK

Homeschooling provides a flexible and engaging way to educate children, with a variety of online platforms, educational apps, workbooks, and field trips offering valuable support to parents and students. Here are some popular resources for UK homeschoolers, including free options and paid services, that can enhance the learning experience.

Online Platforms & Educational Apps:

• BBC Bitesize: A well-known UK resource offering free online learning tools and revision materials for primary and secondary school students. It covers a wide range of subjects, including Maths, English, Science, and more.

• Khan Academy: A free online platform offering educational content for students of all ages. It provides video lessons and exercises across various subjects, including Maths and Science, with personalised learning dashboards to track progress.

• Twinkl: This platform provides a vast library of worksheets, lesson plans, and teaching resources for children from Early Years through to KS4. It's a great tool for parents seeking curriculum-aligned resources.

Field Trips:

Field trips offer hands-on learning for homeschooling students. In the UK, families can explore museums, science centres, and historic sites. Many attractions offer discounted or free entry for homeschooling families and special school trip rates. However, most visits require advance booking and planning.

• The Natural History Museum: Located in London, it has engaging exhibits that bring science and history to life.

• The Science Museum: Offers interactive exhibits that help explain complex scientific principles in a fun and accessible way.

• Historical Sites: Many families opt for educational trips to castles, heritage sites, and historical cities to deepen their understanding of History and the Arts.

Additional free online resources and materials

Here are some additional online resources that can supplement your child's homeschooling journey at no additional cost.

• Dekko Comics

• Oxford Owl.

• Chrome Music Lab

• PE with Joe Wicks

• Quizlet

• 826 Digital

Real-life success stories of homeschooled children

For parents like Emma and Jo, homeschooling is not about becoming experts in every subject but tailoring education to suit their children’s needs and interests.

Emma, who homeschools her children Matilda and Nemo, highlights the freedom to explore topics through trips and documentaries. Matilda, now thriving, even took her GCSEs early. Jo’s daughter Emmie, once bullied at school, has regained confidence and is preparing for an apprenticeship.

Also, Sam James shares her inspiring journey of home-schooling her two children into Oxbridge without following traditional academic paths. Her story highlights that unconventional methods can yield exceptional results.

A-Level Success with MyEdSpace

Kautilya Katariya, a 10-year-old Maths prodigy from Northampton, earned an A* in A-level Maths while studying with MyEdSpace. His journey started during the COVID-19 lockdown. Guided by his tutor, Neil Trivedi, Kautilya excelled in practice tests, consistently achieving top grades. MyEdSpace is proud to support families like Kautilya's in unlocking young talent.

Conclusion

Homeschooling opens up a world of possibilities, offering families a chance to tailor education to their children’s unique strengths, needs, and aspirations. While it comes with its challenges, the benefits—like flexibility, a supportive environment, and personalised learning—are hard to ignore. Remember, with proper planning, the right resources, and support, homeschooling can be an immensely rewarding journey for both parents and children.

If you’re considering homeschooling or looking for tools to enhance your child’s learning experience, MyEdSpace is here to help. Explore our resources and join a community committed to nurturing education, one child at a time.

Visit MyEdSpace today and begin your journey!