Is Home Schooling Legal in England?
Yes, it’s legal, absolutely legal. So much so that there may be as many as 180,000 kids currently being home educated (‘homeschooled’) in England. Section 7 of the Education Act (1996) makes clear that it is education not school that is compulsory and school attendance in the UK is merely optional: “The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full-time education suitable ; a) to his age, ability, and aptitude, and b) to any special educational needs he may have either by regular attendance at school or otherwise.” (A parent can only be charged with failing to send their child to school *IF* (and for as long as) their child’s name appears on the school register. Take the child off the school register = no need to send him/her to school.) Other websites beyond those already suggested include: Freedom in Education @ http://www.freedom-in-education.co.uk
