Home education is growing steadily across the UK, and with that growth comes a mix of freedom, responsibility, and (understandably) a lot of questions.
If you’ve recently deregistered, are thinking about home educating, or just want to feel more confident in how you’re navigating it all, this blog is for you.
Do I Need to Register to Home Educate?
In England, there’s no requirement to register your child as a home educated learner unless they are currently enrolled in a school. If your child is on a school roll, you must formally deregister by writing to the headteacher. Once that’s done, your legal responsibility as a parent kicks in: to provide a suitable education, full-time, from the age of 5.
There’s no national register of home educators yet, though one has been proposed as part of the upcoming Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill (expected in 2026). For now, your choice to home educate is fully legal and doesn’t require ongoing approval.
What Does ‘Suitable Education’ Actually Mean?
This is one of the most commonly asked questions and for good reason. The law says education must be “efficient, full-time, and suitable to the age, ability, aptitude and any special educational needs” of the child.
That leaves a lot of room for interpretation which can feel empowering or anxiety-inducing, depending on your perspective. In reality, this means:
- You don’t need to follow the National Curriculum
- You can tailor learning to your child’s pace, interests, and needs
- You can be flexible with structure, style, and setting
A “suitable” education might look wildly different from one family to another and that’s okay.
Your Local Authority: What to Expect
Local authorities (LAs) are required to make informal enquiries if they believe a child in their area may be home educated. In practice, this usually means you’ll receive a letter or visit invitation after deregistration.
Some families choose to respond with a letter outlining their educational approach. Others prefer to submit a learning plan or portfolio. You don’t have to accept a home visit but you do need to show that a suitable education is being provided in some form.
If the LA isn’t satisfied, they can issue a School Attendance Order, but this is rare and usually follows several stages of discussion.
A Calm Relationship With the LA Is Possible
We know that some families experience tension with their LA. Others have a supportive and respectful relationship. It really can vary.
My advice? Know your rights but also know your values. Clear communication, calm confidence, and documentation of your child’s learning can go a long way in building trust. If you’re ever unsure, you’re not alone. Supportive communities and guidance are out there.
Final Thoughts
Home education can feel like stepping into the unknown but you are not alone. With a basic understanding of your legal position, a flexible approach to learning, and a clear sense of your child’s needs, you are more than capable of creating something meaningful.
Need more support? You’re always welcome to join our SEND & Home Education Support community, where parents share experiences, ask questions, and support each other.