Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Once the Act commences, the registration requirement will apply to all home-educating parents of children of compulsory school age in England — regardless of how long you've been doing it. You should prepare to register before the September 2026 deadline.

No official government form exists. You register by writing a letter or email to your LEA's EHE (Elective Home Education) team. We provide a ready-to-use template on our Letter Templates page.

No. The LEA cannot require you to follow the National Curriculum, use specific resources, or meet particular academic standards. They can ask whether your child is receiving a 'suitable' education — and this is broadly defined as appropriate to the child's age, ability, and aptitude.

The SEND Code of Practice continues to apply. Your LA retains its duties under the EHC plan. The Children's Wellbeing Act will not give the EHE team any additional powers over EHC plan children specifically.

There is no law that forces you to agree to a home visit. However, refusing a home visit without explanation can make the LEA more suspicious and may trigger further action. You can respond professionally, offer alternatives (written evidence, a meeting elsewhere), or politely decline. If you decline, always put it in writing.

Failing to register once the Act is in force will be a breach of the law. The LEA will be able to issue a compliance notice, and continued non-compliance could result in a fine or a school attendance order.

You need to provide the name, role, and approximate weekly hours of anyone involved in your child's education. This applies to paid tutors, volunteer co-op leaders, online programme providers, and anyone else.

Yes. If your child is of compulsory school age (5–16) and you are providing their education at home in England, you must register — whether or not they have ever attended school.

First, formally deregister your child from the school (write to the headteacher). The school should then notify the LEA. However, you should also send your own registration letter to the LEA's EHE team to ensure there is no gap in your record.

Search for '[your council name] EHE team' or '[your council name] elective home education'. Most councils have a dedicated page with contact details. Try our resources page for a search link.

No. Home education law is devolved. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have their own arrangements. This website covers England only. The Children's Wellbeing Act does not extend to the other UK nations.

There is no government funding specifically for home educators in England. However, many families use free resources (Khan Academy, BBC Bitesize, Oak National Academy — all listed on our Resources page). Some local charities and home ed groups have equipment or book lending schemes.