The complete beginners guide to homeschooling


There’s no denying that the prospect of being in charge of your child’s education can be daunting. Whether you want to have more involvement in your kid’s learning or you’re unable to find a suitable school in your area, it’s important that you have the right support to help you make the most of your experience. If you’re new to homeschooling and don’t know where to start, this simple guide should help.

Where can I get support from?
Whatever your reasons for taking your children out of school, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. In fact, according to Oxford Home Schooling, approximately 150,000 children in the UK are currently being educated at home. One of the best sources of support and advice is other parents who are homeschooling, and you may even want to ask to spend a day shadowing another family to see how they go about their-day-to-day routine. Of course, there is also a wealth of information online, including specialist home education sites that have plenty of useful suggestions for learning resources.

Do I have to follow the national curriculum?
Homeschooling parents don’t need to follow the national curriculum. However, you still need to make sure your child receives a balanced education and ensure they are on track with other kids of the same age. It’s also important to set realistic goals for your child’s progression and to teach in a way that reflects their individual learning style. If you lack confidence in your teaching  methods, you can attend teaching training courses or use specialist homeschooling books to brush up on your knowledge.

How should I set up my home?
You’ll also need to think about where your child will study at home. While you don’t necessarily have to replicate a traditional classroom, you should still try to create a working environment that is conducive to learning. Ideally, this means having a designated workstation away from distractions, as well as all the necessary supplies and access to a computer.

What about socialisation?
While academic subjects are important, don’t forget about socialisation. Arrange field trips to museums and libraries with other homeschooling families and encourage your kids to join extracurricular classes and sports teams to ensure their social needs are being met.

It may take a lot of trial and error to get it right, but by following advice like this, you can look forward to a rewarding homeschooling experience for both you and your child.

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