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Elective Home Education (EHE)

EHE is when parents have chosen to take full responsibility for their child’s education. EHE is not when a tutor from a school, or a tutor provided by the local authority, visits the child’s home to provide some of their education. 

The Law states that the responsibility for a child’s education lies with the parents. There is a legal right for parents to educate their child at home, which is fully respected by the local authority. Parents must make this important decision for themselves and not be influenced by educational professionals or any other professionals supporting the family.

If you are considering EHE then it is important that you are aware that it is your right to do so, however in making this decision you become fully responsible for your child’s education.

The local authority has a statutory duty to ensure that all children who are known to them as being electively home educated receive a suitable education.

Download the local authority's policy for Elective Home Education. Download guidance issued by the Department for Education for families who have elected to home educate.

Download the Department for Education guidance for parents.

The decision to electively home educate your child is a big step and a life changing decision which requires extraordinary levels of commitment from parents and children. Whilst Home Educating is very challenging it can also be very rewarding for you and your child.

View information on how to contact the Elective Home Education team if you are considering EHE. The Elective Home Education team will offer impartial advice and guidance at any stage of the process, particularly in the early days when decisions need to be made.

View our frequently asked questions about EHE

Last updated: 01/02/2023 09:05

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