Have you talked to the Head teacher at the school?

Perhaps you want to educate your child at home because they or you are unhappy with their current school. It may be possible to resolve these problems by an effective discussion with the school.

Have you talked to your child about education at home?

• Is your child happy to be educated at home?
• Does he or she understand what it will involve, ie what work you will set, when it will be done, where it will be done?
• It may also mean less time spent with friends.  School has a strong social side as well as offering academic education.  Children learn to interact with each other in joint activities and group work as well as organised trips and outings.

Can you afford to educate at home?

Consider the possible costs involved - such as books, equipment, visits, tutors etc.

Have you the time to educate at home?

You must be able to devote the time to educate your child on a regular basis.

Does your child have special needs?

If so, remember once your child has been withdrawn from school the Local Education Authority (LEA) has no responsibility to help you with any special educational needs your child may have.

Are you able to teach your child?

It is not easy to teach. Although you don't have to follow the National Curriculum, your child will still need the range of skills and knowledge that enable them to live in and adapt to the rapidly changing world.