Is Home Education Right for Your Family?

Over the years, home education has grown in popularity and are now more accepted forms of successful education.

More and more families are embracing this flexible approach to education for their children for a number of reasons. Whether you’re exploring home education due to personal reasons, such as illness, bullying experiences, a desire to travel, or simply seeking a more personal learning experience, homeschooling offers unique opportunities for students of all ages.

If you are wondering about the advantages and disadvantages of home education or whether homeschooling is the right choice for your family, this blog is here to help you decide.

Flexibility as you learn

Arguably, one of the most significant advantages of home education is its level of flexibility. Unlike traditional schools, home education allows families to create study schedules and routines that suit their individual needs.

The flexibility offered by home education allows students to learn at a time and place that works best for them as they pursue their GCSEs, A levels, and higher qualifications.

Personalised education

Homeschooling offers a personalised one-on-one learning experience that can be difficult to replicate in traditional classrooms.

• Students can dive deeper into subjects they love while taking more time on challenging topics. 
• Many parents use distance learning platforms to provide high-quality educational resources and tutor support for A levels and GCSEs.

If you are a parent wondering if you need qualifications to homeschool, the answer is no! 

With access to a wide range of resources, online courses, and tutors, you can provide a successful education without formal teaching qualifications. 

Social benefits of home education

There are many concerns about isolation when it comes to homeschooling. Thankfully, home education can involve meaningful social opportunities, allowing students to gain those all-important social skills.

• Students can connect with other online students through local homeschool groups, sports, and extracurricular activities.
• Distance learning students often develop strong interpersonal skills, as they interact with individuals of all ages, not just their peers.

Many families find that the social benefits of homeschooling lead to confident, well-rounded children who thrive in diverse environments.

“The discussion forum is well-used and I can see lots of ongoing discussions between students and with tutors.”

– NEC Student –

A safe and supportive environment

Unfortunately, one common reason for children deciding to leave a traditional school setting is due to experiencing bullying in the school environment.

For children who have experienced bullying and struggled in traditional school settings, homeschooling can provide not only a fresh start, but a supportive environment where they feel safe as they learn.

Preparing for lifelong learning

Homeschooling allows students to gain independence and a love of learning, both key lifelong learning traits.

• Home education students learn valuable skills like time management, self-discipline, and research capabilities. These skills are hugely beneficial in higher education and beyond.
• With the growing acceptance of distance learning in the UK, many homeschoolers successfully transition to their desired university and vocational paths.

FAQs

Common questions about home education

What are the three main things you need for home education?

1. 1. A structured plan: Decide on curriculum goals and resources for your course subjects.
   2. Supportive tools: Use online platforms, textbooks, and educational programs like distance learning courses.
   3. A positive mindset: Home education is a journey. Flexibility and enthusiasm go a long way in creating a thriving learning environment

Do home-educated children do better?

Thankfully, research shows that many home-educated students perform as well as, or better than, some traditionally schooled students. This could be for a number of reasons, including personalised learning and fewer distraction

“It has proven an ideal solution for us. If you or your child likes independent learning at home but with the back up of a tutor – this is the low-cost, high-effect way to go.”
– NEC Student –

Is distance learning accepted in the UK?

Yes! Distance learning is widely accepted in the UK, and universities, higher education colleges, and employers recognise qualifications like GCSEs and A levels.

Thinking home education is right for you and your family? Get in touch at info@www.nec.ac.uk to discuss your home education options today. We can’t wait for you to get started.