Home schooling: Concern as figures double in five years

The Department for Education (DfE) began collecting home education data in Autumn 2022. From October 2024, it became a mandatory requirement for local authorities to share their figures.

“Our mission is to break down the barriers to opportunity, so every pupil has the best life chances,” said a DfE spokesperson.

“That includes making sure every child is receiving a suitable education for their age, ability, aptitude, and any special educational needs whether they are in school or at home.

“We are legislating for Children Not in School registers so local authorities can better identify and support all home educated children, and reforming the SEND system so more children receive earlier and better support to thrive in education.”

The Welsh government said while most children were best served in school, it recognised the right to home educate. It said home education should be a positive choice, and where families choose it, local authorities have a legal duty to ensure all children receive a suitable education.

The Scottish government said since the pandemic there had been challenges for some returning school so it has invested in a network of virtual head teachers to support vulnerable young people returning.

An Education Authority Northern Ireland spokesperson said: “Many factors may contribute to a parent’s decision to electively home educate their child.”