One of the biggest questions for home-educating families is: what do we actually teach? In England there is no requirement to follow the National Curriculum, which gives you freedom, and a lot to think about. This guide sets out the main approaches and helps you decide what suits your family.
The main approaches
A British-curriculum framework. Many families follow the shape of the National Curriculum or a similar British structure, because it keeps a clear path to GCSEs and A-Levels and makes any move back into school easier. You can use it loosely, as a guide to what to cover and when.
Exam-board or international curricula. Some families choose the Cambridge or Edexcel pathway, especially for older students, because these specifications are designed for students around the world and several International GCSEs are assessed mainly by exam. See IGCSEs and GCSEs.
Boxed curricula and online programmes. Structured packages provide lessons, resources and sometimes marking. They suit families who want less planning.
Child-led or "autonomous" learning. The child's interests lead, and learning happens through projects, conversation, experiences and reading. It can work very well but needs thought about core skills such as literacy and maths.
An eclectic mix. Most families combine approaches, for example a structured routine for maths and English with project work and outings for the rest.
What to consider
Your child. How do they learn best, and what are their interests, strengths and difficulties? A programme that suits one child may not suit another.
Your aims. Do you want to keep the route to GCSEs and A-Levels open? Might your child return to school? The answers shape how closely you follow a standard curriculum.
Your own time. Honestly consider how much planning and teaching you can sustain, and where you would like help.
Budget. Costs range from very little to substantial, depending on tutoring, resources and exam fees.
Core subjects first
Whatever the approach, make sure your child builds strong reading, writing and maths. These unlock everything else. Then add science, humanities, languages, creative subjects, physical activity and life skills at a pace that suits.
Planning to GCSE
Secondary-age students usually benefit from clearer structure as GCSEs approach. As a home educator, you can enter as a private candidate through an exam centre that accepts external entries. Plan 18 to 24 months ahead: choose subjects and boards, find a centre and check deadlines. Our guide to entering GCSEs as a private candidate covers the process, and how to start home education explains the legal basics.
Using tutors
Many families use tutors for subjects they feel less confident teaching, especially maths, sciences and languages at secondary level, or to give their child time with another adult. Tutors can also provide structure and accountability. See private tutoring and the Partner plan for weekly lessons with the same tutor.
Keeping track
Keep a simple record of what you cover and examples of work. It shows progress, helps you plan and is useful if the local authority makes an enquiry.
Reviewing as you go
Check in regularly on what is working. Be ready to change approach, because your child will change, and so will your family's circumstances.
Where to start
Read our overview of home education in England and learn about our home education support, which includes curriculum planning and tutoring.
