What to teach your child at home
As a parent, you are responsible for making sure your child receives a full-time education that is suitable for their:
- age
- ability
- interests
- needs.
You do not need to be a qualified teacher to educate your child at home. Many families take different approaches to learning, often building education around their child's interests, strengths and future goals.
If your child has special educational needs (SEN), their education should meet those needs. If you think your child may have SEN, contact us for advice and support.
Home education should help your child develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need for adult life. You do not have to follow the National Curriculum, but it's helpful to think about how your child will develop skills such as:
- communication
- observation and awareness
- problem solving
- creativity and imagination
- numeracy
- physical development
- personal and social skills
Many families choose to include subjects such as English, maths, science and computing, but what and how your child learns is your choice.
Find details of what is covered in the National Curriculum on GOV.UK.
How much learning should my child do
Learning can happen in many different ways and at different times.
As a guide, children in school attend for 190 days each year. The Department for Education recommends the following teaching hours each week:
- 21 hours for 5 to 7 year olds
- 23.5 hours for 8 to 11 year olds
- 24 hours for 12 to 16 year olds
Resources to help you teach
There are many printed resources, online learning tools and local groups that can help you educate your child at home.
Visit our resources page to find learning materials, websites and support available to home-educating families.