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The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act has changed things for home-educating families in England, and it's generated a fair bit of worry. Here's a calm, practical read on what's actually different and what to do about it.
The main change is registration
Local authorities now keep registers of children not in school, and families are expected to share basic information about how education happens. If you're already educating thoughtfully, this is paperwork rather than a threat, but it does reward being able to show structure.
What "showing structure" looks like
An education plan, records of work, and evidence of progress towards recognised qualifications. This is where a proper pathway helps: a teaching schedule, termly assessments and a clear GCSE roadmap turn a nervous conversation with your local authority into a short one.
The exam question
Home-educated students sit GCSEs as private candidates at approved centres, and demand for seats is rising as more families choose this route. Families on our pathways get a guaranteed place at our own centres, which removes the biggest logistical worry. You can read exactly how that works on our guaranteed exam access page, and check the entry deadlines for the next series.
Do the new rules mean I can't home educate?
No. The right to home educate remains. What's changed is the framework around visibility and record-keeping.
Will my child's education be inspected?
Authorities can make enquiries where they have concerns. Clear records and a structured approach are the practical answer.
Structured pathways, records that satisfy the register, and guaranteed exam access. See our programmes →
Talk it through with us
Ten minutes on the phone will tell you exactly where you stand and what to do next.
