A Sensitive Topic: Dechooling and Homeschooling
Imagine being able to take your child’s education into your own hands, free from the constraints of traditional schooling. Sounds like a dream come true, right? But, for many parents in Plymouth, UK, the thought of homeschooling can be daunting, especially given the perceived "red tape" surrounding it. But what if I told you that, with the right guidance, homeschooling can be a liberating experience for both you and your child?
What is Homeschooling?
Homeschooling, also known as dechooling, is the practice of educating children outside of the traditional school system, either through online programs or in-person instruction. According to the UK’s Elective Home Education (EHE) Guidelines, " Elective home education is when parents or carers decide to take full responsibility for their child’s education and choose not to enrol them in a mainstream school or academy." (1)
Why Homeschool?
So, why would parents choose to homeschool their child? For many, it’s a matter of personal values and a desire to provide a tailored education that caters to their child’s unique needs. As The Guardian notes, "Some parents choose homeschooling because they’re dissatisfied with the school system or because their child has special needs." (2)
Benefits of Homeschooling
There are numerous benefits to homeschooling, including:
- Personalised learning: With homeschooling, parents can tailor their child’s education to their individual strengths and weaknesses.
- Flexibility: Homeschooling allows parents to create a schedule that suits their family’s lifestyle.
- Improved academic performance: According to The National Autistic Society, "Some children may thrive in a home learning environment." (3)
- Reduced peer pressure: Homeschooling can provide a safe space for children to learn without the influence of peer pressure.
The Legalities of Homeschooling in Plymouth, UK
So, how does one go about homeschooling in Plymouth, UK? According to the Plymouth City Council, "As a parent or carer, it is your responsibility to educate your child. If you choose not to send your child to school, you must provide them with a suitable full-time education." (4)
Here are the steps to follow:
- Notify the school: Inform your child’s current school, in writing, of your intention to homeschool.
- Notify the local authority: Inform the Plymouth City Council, in writing, of your intention to homeschool.
- Develop a suitable education plan: Create a plan outlining your child’s educational goals and objectives.
- Meet with the local authority: Attend a meeting with the Plymouth City Council to discuss your education plan.
- Regular monitoring: Be prepared for regular monitoring and assessments by the local authority.
Key Resources for Homeschooling in Plymouth, UK
- Plymouth City Council: Offers guidance and support for homeschooling families.
- Homeschooling in Plymouth: A Facebook group for homeschooling families in Plymouth.
- Education Otherwise: A UK-based organisation providing resources and support for homeschooling families.
- The National Autistic Society: Offers guidance and support for homeschooling families with children on the autism spectrum.
Conclusion
Homeschooling can be a rewarding and liberating experience for both parents and children. While it may seem daunting at first, the steps outlined above provide a clear guide for navigating the process in Plymouth, UK. With the right guidance and support, homeschooling can be a viable and fulfilling option for families who want to take control of their child’s education.
References:
(1) UK Government. (2022). Elective Home Education. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/elective-home-education
(2) The Guardian. (2018). Why do parents choose homeschooling?. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/education/2018/oct/18/why-do-parents-choose-homeschooling
(3) The National Autistic Society. (2022). Elective Home Education. Retrieved from https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/types-of-education/elective-home-education.aspx
(4) Plymouth City Council. (2022). Elective Home Education. Retrieved from https://www.plymouth.gov.uk/electivehomeeducation
Additional Resources:
- Education Otherwise: A UK-based organisation providing resources and support for homeschooling families. www.education Otherwise.org
- The Homeschooling in Plymouth Facebook group: A community for homeschooling families in Plymouth to connect and share resources. www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginplymouth
- Plymouth City Council’s Homeschooling webpage: Provides guidance and support for homeschooling families in Plymouth. www.plymouth.gov.uk/electivehomeeducation
