So how do I homeschool? How to Start Homeschooling in the UK: Rules, Laws & First Steps
Hello! I recently went to a lovely gathering of around 10 women who had come together to learn more about home education. Most of their kids were already in school, and a few had kids who were about to start. I shared about our homeschool experience, something that is happening more and more, as it seems like more and more I’m being asked questions or sent messages asking what it looks like for us. About what it looks like to get started, questions around the legalities of homeschooling and what steps are needed to be taken, if any, to deregister. So, if you’re thinking of home educating your child in the UK, whether you're starting from scratch or considering taking your child out of school, it’s good to get to grips with any legal and practical steps. The good news is—home education is entirely legal in the UK, and the process is simpler than many people realise.
Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Is Homeschooling Legal in the UK?
Let’s kick off with the big stuff. Yes—home education is legal across the UK. In England and Wales, it’s covered by Section 7 of the Education Act 1996, which says you must ensure your child receives an education suitable to their age, ability, and aptitude, and to any special educational needs they may have. You don’t have to be a qualified teacher, follow the national curriculum and you don’t even need to register with the government.
Fun fact: homeschooling is ILLEGAL in many countries, such as Germany, Sweden, Bulgaria, Turkey and others.
If Your Child Has Never Been to School
If your child has never been enrolled in a school (which was us), you don’t need to inform anyone to begin homeschooling. You're not legally obliged to notify your local authority, although some parents choose to do so out of transparency. Once the LA receives your notification, they may ask you to provide information or evidence that you are providing a suitable education. They may ask for a brief report outlining your approach, examples of what your child is learning, a description of your routine or structure (however that looks), and samples of work ie, reading lists or resources. They may ask to come for a home visit or meeting, but you are not obliged to say yes. Local authorities vary, and I have heard many different stories on what they require but, local authorities don't do anything unless they are concerned. They usually ask for an update annually and that is usually online. If the LA is satisfied, they won't contact for another year. Why not chat to local home educators in your area to see what their experience is for a more accurate picture?
What if they’re not satisfied?
They will give a notice to improve
Give you time to respond with more evidence
Only as a last resort, will they give a school attendance order
From friends I have spoken to, you would need to be doing something pretty dramatic to warrant being sent a notice to improve.
I want to remove my child from school:
If your child is currently enrolled in a school, you'll need to formally deregister them.
How do I deregister?
Write a letter or email to the headteacher of the school stating that you are electively home educating and requesting that your child’s name be removed from the school register.
Something like this:
"I am writing to inform you that I am electively home educating my child, [Child's Full Name], and request that their name be removed from the school register effective immediately, as per Section 8(1)(d) of the Education (Pupil Registration) Regulations 2006."
The school must agree to this unless your child attends a special school (more on that below). You don’t need permission from the school or the local authority.
Once deregistered, like I said above, your LA may contact you to ask how you plan to provide a suitable education.
Do I Need to Register With Anyone?
In England, there’s no requirement to register with your local authority (unless your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan and attends a special school).In this case you will need permission from the local authority before you can deregister them.
If your child has an EHCP but is in a mainstream school, the usual deregistration rules apply.
Some common myths busted about home education:
I wrote a blog here.
Helpful Resources
thrivingwithhannah on instagram
Local Facebook or WhatsApp home ed groups (search for "[Your County] Home Education")
And my favourite Home Education books:
Final Thoughts
The process to begin homeschooling is probably more straightforward than you think. Any other questions, let me know below!